Founded by Miranda Angstrom—a dental hygienist with 30 years of experience and a mother to an autistic son—Autism Smiles works to bridge the gap between the dental community and families on the spectrum. The video illustrates how sensory-friendly dental events remove the fear and “overwhelming experience” typically associated with the dentist.
Key Features of the Program
A Pressure-Free Environment: The program removes expectations, allowing children to play with fidget toys in the lobby and explore the operatory rooms at their own pace.
Personalized Care: Staff engage with parents to learn what comfort items—such as blankets or headphones—will make the visit simpler for the child.
Professional Education: These events serve a dual purpose by training dentists and hygienists in the “universal language of kids,” making them more comfortable treating patients with sensory needs.
The Power of Storytelling
Through authentic non-profit storytelling, the video captures the emotional journey of parents who once felt like “horrible parents” for dragging their kids to the dentist. Now, those same families celebrate “big wins” in a clinic that feels like home.