A separate and quiet entrance from the back of the office
Sensory Discovery Zone
at Safari of Smiles
A calm start in our Sensory Explorer Zone
An unhurried transition to our sensory-friendly dental room
Hi Friends!
I've joined the Safari Crew to help make dentist visits easier for our young explorers.
Follow my glowing path of lights to discover:
• My Sensory Discovery Zone where you can unwind with jelly pals and soothing bubbles
• A special space tailored just for you
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Feel calm & comfortable? Let's follow the lights together to meet more friendly faces in my cozy dentist room!
Going to the dentist got you feeling nervous?
Don't worry! With me by your side, you'll become a brave Safari of Smiles explorer in no time.
Sensory Friendly Visit Pathways
At Safari of Smiles, we know every child experiences the dental office a little differently.
That’s why we created our Sensory-Friendly Visit Pathways to help children with sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or neurodiverse needs feel more comfortable and confident during their visit.
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Every new sensory patient starts in our Sensory Explorer Room, a calm and welcoming space where kids can explore, regulate, and ease into the experience first. From there, we meet each child where they are and move at a pace that feels right for them, with sensory support every step of the way.
Because every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and celebrated at the dentist.
Sensory Explorer
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Sensory-Led Exploration
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Introduction to Dental Routine
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Dental Care Attempted Once Your Child is Ready
For children with sensory sensitivities that need extra time to feel comfortable in a dental setting.
Sensory Discovery
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Time Shared Between Spaces
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Explained Transitions
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Flexible Breaks
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Unhurried Environment
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Some Dental Care is Completed
For children who would benefit from structure and paced dental care.
Sensory Support
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Support Takes Place Entirely in Dental Room
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Sensory Support Readily Available
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Respect for the Child’s Sensory Preferences
Children who do well in our environment but still benefit from our sensory-friendly room.
Sensory Friendly
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“Graduated” from Sensory Discovery
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Independent Dental Visits
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Access to Sensory Tools if Needed
For children who have moved through our sensory programs. Sensory supports always remain available if needed.
It All Starts With You!
The Sensory Assessment Session takes place before your kiddo's first Safari Adventure. Dr. Alvarez takes time to learn about your child by meeting with you! She joins you in designing what the initial visit will look like.
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During the Sensory Assessment Session you assist Dr. Alvarez in learning about your explorer's specific sensory needs. A discovery pathway is then selected to begin our child's dental safari journey.
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Our goal is to tailor this experience to fit your child and leading them to the acceptance of oral health care without the need for sedation.