Special Needs Pediatric Dentistry in Delaware
Calm, expert dental care for children with autism, sensory processing differences, anxiety, and complex medical histories — from a board certified pediatric dentist specifically trained for the children who need more.
If you've been told your child is "too difficult" for the dentist, you're in the right place.
Dr. Morgan Morrow completed her pediatric dental residency at the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where she spent significant clinical time with children who have autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing differences, anxiety, and complex medical histories. Her residency research focused on dental treatment for children on the autism spectrum.
At First Smile, special needs dentistry isn't a side note. It's central to how the practice was built.
Accommodations available at every visit
We don't ask families to fit our office. Our office is built to fit your child.
Pre-visit tour
A relaxed visit with no exam, no instruments — just the chance to meet the team and see the space first.
Quiet room option
A treatment room away from the busier hallway when sound, light, or activity is a trigger.
Sensory tools
Weighted blankets, noise-reducing headphones, dimmed lights, sunglasses, and fidget items available at every visit.
Visual schedules
Picture-based step-by-step previews so your child knows exactly what is coming next.
Parent in the chair
Parents are welcome alongside their child for the entire visit — not as a backup, as the plan.
Multiple short visits
When it serves the child, we break treatment into shorter, paced visits before any clinical work begins.
Tell-show-do, every step
Nothing happens that we have not first explained, then shown, then demonstrated. No surprises.
Sedation when appropriate
For complex care needs we discuss nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, or hospital-based general anesthesia openly with you.
How a first visit usually works
- 1
A call before the visit
We invite you to call us first so we can hear about your child specifically: triggers, calming strategies that work, what previous visits have looked like, what you hope this one will be.
- 2
A pre-visit plan
Together we decide what the first appointment includes. Sometimes the right first visit is just walking through the office. Sometimes it is a full exam. We pace it for your child, not for the schedule.
- 3
The visit itself
Tell-show-do, every step. Sensory tools available. Parent in the chair. Breaks whenever needed. We watch your child closely and follow their cues.
- 4
After the visit
We talk through what worked, what we would do differently, and the plan for next time. Treatment, when needed, is built into the rhythm we have established together.
Frequently asked questions
Do you treat children with autism spectrum disorder?
My child has been turned away by another dentist. Will you see us?
What conditions and needs do you accommodate?
What about restraint?
Do you accept Delaware Medicaid (DMAP)?
How long is a special needs visit?
Talk to us before you book
For special needs visits we always start with a phone call. Tell us about your child. We will take the time.