Special Needs Dentistry
Home | Special Needs Dentistry
Gentle Pediatric Dentistry for Children with Special Needs
At Sawgrass Pediatric Dentistry, we believe every child deserves excellent dental care, delivered with patience, understanding, and compassion.
Dr. Ryan and our team have extensive experience caring for children with a wide range of medical, developmental, sensory, and behavioral needs. Families across Carolina Forest, Myrtle Beach, Conway, and surrounding communities trust us to create safe, positive dental visits—no matter what challenges their child may face.
A Gentle, Individualized Approach
As a mom and pediatric dentist, Dr. Ryan understands that each child is unique. Here’s how she and our team make dental visits easier for children with special needs:
-
Taking extra time to go slow and build trust
-
Letting children explore instruments before treatment
-
Offering desensitization visits for children who need multiple short visits to feel comfortable
-
Working closely with parents and caregivers to understand each child’s needs
-
Adapting communication styles and techniques for every child
Our goal is simple: no rush, no pressure—just gentle, compassionate care.
![AdobeStock_133177506 [Converted]_edited.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/cd57db_d137204fe6be4bd8b1dc7ff2bf8a38c9~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_63,h_125,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_avif,quality_auto/AdobeStock_133177506%20%5BConverted%5D_edited.png)
Creating a Safe Space for Every Child
At Sawgrass Pediatric Dentistry, we’ve designed our office to help kids feel as comfortable as possible. Families love that:
-
Our office is colorful and inviting
-
We keep noises low whenever possible
-
Our team uses soft voices and gentle movements
-
We celebrate every small victory—no matter how big or small
We’re here to make your child’s dental experience as positive and stress-free as we can.
Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Special needs dentistry is personalized dental care for children with medical, developmental, or behavioral challenges. It focuses on comfort, patience, and adapting each visit to the child’s unique needs.
Dr. Ryan takes time to build trust, lets children explore instruments, and offers short desensitization visits. Her gentle approach helps reduce fear and anxiety.
Yes, the office is designed to be calm and welcoming. We keep noise levels low, use soft voices, and maintain a soothing, colorful space.
Absolutely. We adapt techniques, pace, and communication to support children with sensory needs, including autism spectrum disorders.
We understand dental anxiety and never rush. Our goal is to help your child feel safe, supported, and gradually more comfortable with each visit.
Yes. We work closely with parents and caregivers to fully understand each child’s needs and create a supportive care plan together.
Yes. We offer desensitization visits—short, repeated appointments that help children ease into dental care at their own pace.
We proudly serve families in Carolina Forest, Myrtle Beach, Conway, and nearby communities.
Monday
8am – 12:45pm
2pm – 4:45pm
Tuesday
8am- 12:45pm
2pm - 4:45pm
Wednesday
8am – 3pm
CLOSED
Thursday
8am – 12:45pm
2pm - 4:45pm
Friday
8am – 12pm
CLOSED
What Is Special Needs Dentistry?
Children with special healthcare needs may:
-
Be sensitive to sounds, lights, or touch
-
Have physical or developmental disabilities
-
Experience anxiety or fear during dental visits
-
Need extra time or gentle techniques for comfort
Special needs dentistry means adapting every part of the dental experience to help your child feel safe and supported. It’s about respect, patience, and building trust—one small step at a time.
