Special Needs Dentistry for Children in Denver, CO
At Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry, we believe every child deserves excellent dental care — regardless of their individual challenges or special needs. Dr. Kojo Danso and our entire team are trained to provide compassionate, expert dental care for children with a wide range of medical, developmental, and physical conditions. We welcome all children and are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience for each one.
Request an AppointmentOur Approach to Special Needs Dental Care
Caring for children with special needs requires more than clinical skill — it requires patience, empathy, flexibility, and a deep understanding of how different conditions can affect a child’s dental experience. Our team has received specialized training in working with children who have a variety of unique needs, and we take a completely individualized approach to every patient.
We never rush. We never push a child beyond what they are ready for. We take the time to build trust with each child, adapting our communication style, techniques, and environment to what works best for them. Whether your child needs a brief introduction to the dental chair before we begin, extra breaks during an appointment, or a different approach to communication entirely, we are here to make it work.
Conditions We Have Experience With
Our team has experience providing dental care for children with a wide range of conditions, including:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) — We understand that sensory sensitivities, routine dependence, and communication differences are all part of working with children on the autism spectrum. We adapt our approach accordingly, offer pre-visit tours of the office, and work carefully to build trust over time.
Down syndrome — Children with Down syndrome often have unique oral health considerations, including delayed tooth eruption, missing teeth, gum disease, and differences in tooth shape or position. We monitor these carefully and provide tailored preventive care.
Cerebral palsy — Motor difficulties and spasticity can make oral hygiene challenging and affect how children respond to dental care. We work with families to develop effective at-home care routines and provide gentle, adapted in-office care.
Cleft lip and palate — Children with cleft lip or palate have specific dental and orthodontic needs that require careful, ongoing monitoring. Dr. Danso collaborates with other healthcare providers when appropriate to coordinate comprehensive care.
Childhood cancer and related conditions — Children undergoing cancer treatment or recovering from it may experience significant oral health effects. We provide supportive care tailored to their unique situation.
We also work with children who have other genetic conditions, cardiac disorders, bleeding disorders, and developmental delays. If you are unsure whether we can accommodate your child, please call us at (303) 757-8844 — we are always happy to discuss your family’s needs.
Accessibility and Accommodations
Our office is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that children with physical disabilities can receive care comfortably. We can also make scheduling accommodations for families who need early morning appointments, extra appointment time, or other specific arrangements. Please let us know what your child needs when you call to schedule — we’ll do everything we can to prepare.
Sedation and Sleep Dentistry Options
For children with special needs who require more involved dental procedures, or whose condition makes it difficult to cooperate during treatment, we offer hospital sleep dentistry in partnership with Children’s Hospital Colorado. This allows us to provide safe, complete dental care while your child is fully asleep under the supervision of medical anesthesiology professionals. It is often the most appropriate option for children who would find awake dental care distressing or unsafe.
We also offer SOAN pain-free injections to make numbing as comfortable as possible, and our team is trained to use calming communication and positive reinforcement throughout every visit.
To schedule a special needs dental appointment for your child in Denver, CO,, contact Cherry Creek Pediatric Dentistry today at (303) 757-8844.
Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Dentistry
What types of special needs does your practice accommodate?
We care for children with autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, cleft lip and palate, childhood cancer, cardiac conditions, developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and many other conditions. If you’re unsure whether we can meet your child’s needs, please call us at (303) 757-8844 — we’re happy to discuss.
How do you prepare for a child with sensory sensitivities or autism?
We can offer pre-visit tours of the office so your child can become familiar with the environment before their appointment. We adapt our language, pace, lighting, and use of tools based on what the child can handle. Please let us know about your child’s sensitivities when scheduling so we can prepare.
Do you offer sedation for children with special needs?
Yes. For children who require more support during dental procedures, we offer hospital sleep dentistry (general anesthesia) in partnership with Children’s Hospital Colorado. This is often the safest and most comfortable option for children with significant anxiety or conditions that make awake treatment difficult.
Is your office wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Our office is fully wheelchair accessible. If your child uses a wheelchair or other mobility equipment, please let us know when scheduling and we will ensure everything is set up for a smooth visit.
How do you handle a child who has difficulty tolerating dental procedures?
We use a gradual, trust-building approach — starting with what your child is comfortable with and building from there. We may schedule shorter “getting to know you” visits before more involved treatment. For children who cannot tolerate awake dental care, we discuss sedation options with families.
Do you work with other healthcare providers to coordinate my child’s care?
Yes. When appropriate, Dr. Danso works collaboratively with your child’s pediatrician, specialists, and other healthcare providers to ensure that dental care is coordinated with your child’s overall health needs.
How can I prepare my child with special needs for a dental visit?
Talk about the visit in advance using simple, positive language. Social stories and picture books about going to the dentist can help. If possible, schedule a brief pre-visit to the office before the actual appointment. Let us know what strategies work well for your child at home and we’ll do our best to apply them in our office too.