Finding a dentist for an autistic child can be incredibly difficult, and after our previous…read moretraumatic experience, I was honestly terrified to bring my daughter to another dental clinic.
From the very first phone call, Salvador was kind, patient, helpful, and accommodating. When we arrived at the clinic, he treated us with the same warmth and compassion. At no point did I feel pressured or forced into any treatment. That alone made a huge difference for our family.
Dr. Regina was equally amazing. She welcomed my daughter with kindness and met her where she was instead of expecting her to immediately cooperate. Rather than forcing an exam, she earned my daughter's trust. The clinic's playhouse was such a thoughtful touch. My daughter loves playhouses, so she naturally gravitated toward it, and Dr. Regina was able to meet and examine her there. She cried a little, but it was nothing like the fear and panic she had experienced before.
Our previous experience at another dental clinic ( Coastal Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics in Otay Mall) that claimed to accomodate autistic children was heartbreaking. My daughter was held down, forced to open her mouth, and had a metal mouth prop placed to keep it open while she screamed for help. I was instructed to hold her down, and I left that appointment with scratches on my arms and emotional trauma that I still carry. Before we even got started, the covering dentist's first comment was, "Put her in a room," despite the clinic knowing that enclosed spaces are a major trigger for my daughter. Instead of trying to understand her needs, they quickly decided she was "impossible" and referred us for sedation. I later reached out to the clinic and even left a review, but no one ever contacted us or apologized. Since then, every dental visit has been filled with fear for my daughter.
That is why today's experience at Children's Primary Dental meant so much to me.
Thank you, Salvador, Dr. Regina, and the entire team at Children's Primary Dental for treating my daughter with the patience, dignity, compassion, and respect she deserves. You showed us that dental care for autistic children doesn't have to involve fear, force, or trauma. It can be built on trust, understanding, and meeting each child where they are.
To any parent of an autistic child who has been searching for a dental provider that truly understands neurodivergent children, I wholeheartedly recommend Children's Primary Dental. This clinic gave our family hope again, and for that, I will always be grateful.
