Book Your Appointment
New Patient
Existing Patient
Full Name *
Mobile *
+971
Search
    Email *
    Treatment *
    Other treatment? Please specify. *
    Preferred Date
    Preferred Time
    Preferred Center *
    Upload your Insurance Emirates ID (optional)
    Browse Files No file chosen
    Insurance Details Notes
    Source
    Medium
    Campaign
    ID
    Referrer URL
    Send an Enquiry
    Full Name *
    Mobile *
    +971
    Search
      Email *
      Enquiry Type *
      Document Type *
      EID Front *
      Browse Files No file chosen
      EID Back *
      Browse Files No file chosen
      Insurance Front *
      Browse Files No file chosen
      Insurance Back *
      Browse Files No file chosen
      Passport *
      Browse Files No file chosen
      Document to request *
      Center *
      Enquiry *
      Referrer URL
      Special Needs Children's Dentistry

      Special Needs Children's Dentistry

      Expert care.
      Gentle approach.
      Tailored to every child.

      At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, we believe every child deserves high-quality dental care—especially those with special healthcare needs. Our experienced board-certified pediatric dentists are trained to provide compassionate, customized care for children with developmental, physical, cognitive, emotional, or sensory challenges.

      Who we care for

      What Makes Our
      Approach Different

      We understand that dental visits can be stressful—especially for children with special needs. That’s why we’ve designed our care approach to be patient, supportive, and individualized. Here’s how we help:

      Detailed Intake Process

      We start by understanding your child’s medical history, sensory sensitivities, communication preferences, and behavioral patterns.

      Tell-Show-Do Technique

      We explain, demonstrate, and gently perform each step to help your child feel safe and in control.

      Desensitization Visits

      We offer short, non-invasive visits to help children get used to the dental environment gradually and comfortably.

      Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies

      Our team integrates proven behavior management techniques to encourage cooperation and reduce anxiety.

      Sedation Options

      When necessary, we offer safe sedation methods tailored to each child’s needs.

      Extra Time & Attention

      Every appointment is given the time and flexibility needed for a stress-free experience.

      What Services Do We Offer?

      From preventive care to restorative treatments, we offer a full range of pediatric dental services, including:

      Special Needs Dentistry for Children

      Your Child’s
      First Visit

      We take time to understand your child’s individual needs before their first visit. You’re welcome to speak with us beforehand to discuss any concerns or to arrange a pre-visit tour. Familiarity helps build comfort and sets the stage for a successful dental journey.

      A Team You Can Trust

      Our clinics are designed with your child’s comfort in mind, and our doors are always open to children who need a little extra care. Visit us today and let’s work together to give every child the care they need and the smiles they deserve.

      Our Specialist Pediatric Dentists

      Dr. Lana Shokini

      Specialist Pediatric Dentist
      BDS

      Dr. Thereza El Haddad

      Specialist Pediatric Dentist
      DDS, MSc

      Dr. Zafer Azizi

      Specialist Pediatric Dentist
      BDS, MSc, DUCOP

      Dr. Tahir Shahnawaz

      Consultant Pediatric Dentist
      BDS, MSc, FRACDS

      Dr. Rita Soueidi

      Specialist Pediatric Dentist
      DDS, MSc

      Dr. Sara Abdalla

      Specialist Pediatric Dentist

      Dr. Ghada Hussain

      Specialist Pediatric Dentist

      Dr. Walid Wahba

      Specialist Pediatric Dentist
      Special Needs Dentistry for Children

      Special Needs Dentistry FAQs

      A special needs pediatric dentist has additional training and experience in caring for children with developmental, behavioral, sensory, or medical conditions. We understand that every child communicates, feels, and responds differently — so we adapt our words, environment, and treatment techniques to meet them where they are.

      At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, our Specialist Pediatric Dentists combine compassion with advanced clinical expertise. From gentle communication and behavior-management strategies to safe sedation when needed, every visit is designed to help your child feel calm, understood, and genuinely cared for.

      Ideally, by their first birthday or within six months after the first tooth appears. Early visits help us track your child’s development, make them comfortable in the dental chair, and teach you how to care for their teeth at home.

      However, if it’s been a while since your child’s last visit, don’t worry — it’s never too late to start. At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, we see special-needs patients of all ages, and every visit is customized to your child’s stage, comfort level, and unique needs.

      That’s completely okay — every child is different. Our clinics are equipped to adapt the dental experience around your child’s comfort. We can adjust positioning using beanbags, lap supports, or alternative seating so they feel secure and relaxed.

      If sitting through treatment is still difficult, we may recommend mild sedation or, when necessary, general anesthesia in a hospital setting — always under the care of our experienced pediatric team and licensed anesthesiologists.

      We know that visiting the dentist can feel overwhelming for children who are sensitive to sound, light, or new surroundings. That’s why we take extra steps to make each visit calm and predictable.

      Our clinics can dim the lights, offer noise-reducing headphones, or use weighted blankets for comfort. We move at your child’s pace, with step-by-step desensitization visits that let them gradually get used to the dental environment. Familiar objects, gentle communication, and plenty of positive reinforcement help your child feel safe, confident, and proud of every milestone.

      Absolutely. We always welcome parents and caregivers to stay with their child during appointments — your presence can make all the difference in helping them feel calm and secure.

      However, if your child responds better with fewer distractions, the dentist might suggest a short separation for part of the visit. You’ll always be close by, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way. Our goal is to make each experience as positive and comfortable as possible for both you and your child.

      That’s not a problem at all — we understand that every child has their own pace and comfort level. Treatments can be divided into several shorter, easier visits, allowing your child time to adjust and feel confident each step of the way.

      If needed, we can also complete care under safe sedation or general anesthesia, always supervised by our experienced pediatric team and anesthesiologists. Our priority is simple: to complete your child’s treatment safely, gently, and with as little stress as possible.

      Yes, it can — and that’s something we always take very seriously. Some medications may affect bleeding, healing, or how your child responds to anesthesia or sedation.

      Before every appointment, our team carefully reviews your child’s medical history and current medications. When needed, we coordinate directly with your child’s pediatrician or specialist to make sure treatment is planned safely and comfortably. You can always share any new prescriptions or dosage changes with us — it helps us provide the best and safest care possible.

      Every child learns differently — and that includes learning how to care for their teeth. Our team takes time to show both children and parents how to make brushing and flossing easier and more effective.

      We use visual guides, adaptive toothbrushes, and simple step-by-step demonstrations that match your child’s abilities and comfort level. Caregivers also receive personalized home-care tips to help make daily routines smoother and more positive.

      At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, our goal is to help every family build confidence in caring for their child’s smile — one small, achievable step at a time.

      Insurance coverage can vary, and we know navigating it can sometimes be challenging. Our friendly front-desk coordinators are always happy to help. We can check your coverage, assist with pre-approvals, and explain any out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins — so there are no surprises.

      At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, we believe every child deserves access to high-quality dental care, and we’ll do our best to make the process as smooth as possible for your family.

      Yes, they can — and it’s more common than many parents realize. Tooth pain, cavities, or oral infections can cause discomfort that affects a child’s mood, sleep, and ability to focus. Sometimes what looks like irritability or attention issues is simply a sign of dental discomfort.

      At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, our pediatric dentists are trained to recognize these subtle signs. By treating oral pain early, we not only protect your child’s smile but also help improve their overall comfort, behavior, and confidence — at home and in school.