13515 Steele Creek Rd Suite 213, Charlotte, NC
Compassionate Dental Care for Children With Special Needs
Special Needs Children Are at the Center of Our Care. We’ve created Charlotte’s first sensory-friendly pediatric dental room, designed with calm, comfort, and compassion in mind. Our practice was thoughtfully designed to minimize sensory triggers and help regulate your child’s nervous system—so they can feel at ease before they ever sit in the chair. We’ll meet them exactly where they are—no pressure to “mask”, no judgment and no rush.
Every child is welcome here — no diagnosis required.
Families in Steele Creek, Fort Mill, Tega Cay, and the greater Charlotte area trust us to provide inclusive, dental care that truly makes a difference.
The Special Needs Care Process
Welcome Consultation
We begin with a calm consultation to get to know your child’s unique needs. Together, we’ll review their medical history, discuss any sensory sensitivities or triggers, and answer all your questions. This visit is all about building trust and setting the stage for positive experiences.
Desensitization & Familiarity
For children with special needs, feeling comfortable and familiar with their surroundings is essential. We offer desensitization visits that gently introduce your child to our office, helping reduce anxiety over time.
Tailored Dental Treatment
We tailor dental care to your child’s unique needs and comfort level, providing only the treatments that are necessary. Our team takes extra care to maintain a safe, comfortable experience—whether your child needs a routine cleaning or more advanced care.
Why Families of Children With Special Needs Choose Pure Hearts
We tailor every visit to your child’s needs, pace, and comfort level.
Designed to reduce overwhelm and help children feel safe.
Allows children to build trust over time without pressure.
Experienced in caring for children with diverse needs.
You know your child best — we listen and adapt.
For children who need extra support, we offer safe and effective sedation options to create a peaceful, trauma-free experience.
For Children With
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- ADHD
- Sensory Processing Disorder
- Down Syndrome
- Past dental trauma
- Developmental Delay
- High dental anxiety
Your child does not need a formal diagnosis to receive individualized, compassionate care.
If You’re Feeling Nervous About Bringing Your Child In
You are not alone. Many parents come to us feeling unsure or worried after difficult past dental experiences. We meet families with patience, understanding, and no judgment — always moving at your child’s pace. It’s an honor to walk this journey with you.
Ready to Take the Next Gentle Step?
At Pure Hearts Pediatric Dentistry, we use thoughtful, trauma-informed techniques throughout every visit — because how your child feels in our care matters just as much as their dental health.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pure Hearts Pediatric Dentistry different for children with special needs?
At Pure Hearts Pediatric Dentistry, we center children with special needs in our care. We’ve created Charlotte’s first sensory-friendly pediatric dental room, designed to minimize sensory triggers and regulate your child’s nervous system. Our team uses trauma-informed, compassionate techniques, and we always go at your child’s pace to create a comfortable, judgment-free environment.
What is a sensory-friendly dental room, and how does it help my child?
Our sensory-friendly dental room is thoughtfully designed to calm the senses and soothe children with sensory sensitivities. With features like fiber optic lights, tactile toys, dim lighting, and weighted blankets, we create a space that supports emotional regulation, helping your child feel safe and at ease before any treatment begins.
Do you offer sedation for children with special needs?
Yes, for children who need extra support, we offer safe and effective sedation options to create a calm, trauma-free experience. Sedation can help your child feel more relaxed and comfortable during their visit, especially if they have high dental anxiety or are receiving more extensive dental treatment.
How do you work with parents to ensure the best care for my child?
We believe in working closely with parents to create a care plan that meets your child’s unique needs. From the consultation to treatment, we collaborate with you every step of the way, ensuring that you feel heard, informed, and confident in the care your child is receiving.
Is Pure Hearts Pediatric Dentistry experienced in caring for children with specific conditions like Autism or ADHD?
Yes, our team is specially trained and experienced in caring for children with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, Down Syndrome, developmental delays, and high dental anxiety. We tailor our approach to each child, ensuring they feel supported, comfortable, and understood during every visit.
How do you ensure my child feels comfortable during their dental visit?
At Pure Hearts Pediatric Dentistry, we use a combination of sensory-friendly tools, trauma-informed techniques, and personalized care to ensure your child feels comfortable and safe during their visit. From gentle explanations to a calming environment, our goal is to help your child feel relaxed and confident throughout the entire dental experience.
What if my child has had a traumatic dental experience in the past?
We move at your child’s pace, prioritize trust, and never force treatment. Our goal is to help your child feel safe — even if that means going slowly.
Ready to Get Cozy in Our Space?
We are here to provide a positive and comfortable dental experience for your child (and you!)
