SEN-Friendly Dentist in StevenageGentle care for autistic, ADHD and sensory-sensitive patients
A dental practice that understands non-visible disabilities. Dr Alan de Vos welcomes adults and children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences and dental phobia — and adapts every aspect of the visit to what works for you.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme Welcome Here
We recognise and warmly welcome patients wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard. Our team will ensure you receive the extra time, patience and reasonable adjustments you need — just let us know when you book, or simply wear your lanyard at the appointment.
Learn more about the Sunflower scheme ↗Conditions we have experience with
Dr Alan has built a reputation as a dentist who treats every patient as an individual — especially those whose needs aren't always visible.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Sensory sensitivities, unpredictability and new environments can all make dental visits difficult. We adapt every aspect.
ADHD
Structured, engaging appointments with regular breaks. You stay involved in decisions.
Sensory Processing Differences
Lights, sounds, smells, textures — we adjust or eliminate triggers wherever possible.
Dental Phobia & Anxiety
Severe dental anxiety is treated with the same respect and patience as any other condition. We never dismiss it.
Learning Disabilities
Clear, simple, patient communication. Carers and advocates are welcomed as equal partners in care.
Hearing or Vision Impairment
We slow down, face you directly, use visual aids or written information as needed.
Reasonable adjustments we routinely make
No one adjustment fits everyone. Tell us what you need and we'll make it happen.
“Dr Alan was absolutely brilliant with my son who has autism. Best dentist we have ever been to.
SEN Dentistry FAQs
Do you treat autistic adults and children?
Yes. Dr Alan de Vos has extensive experience treating patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder across all ages. We offer longer appointments, pre-visit tours of the surgery, a quiet waiting environment, adjusted lighting and sound, and we always work at your pace. Every aspect of the visit can be adapted to what works for you.
What is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme?
The Sunflower lanyard is a globally-recognised symbol of a non-visible disability — including autism, ADHD, anxiety, sensory processing differences, hearing loss and many others. At Bowling Green Dental we recognise the lanyard and our team is trained to offer extra time, patience and reasonable adjustments on request.
What reasonable adjustments can you make for SEN patients?
A lot. We routinely offer: longer appointments with no rushing, pre-visit surgery tours, a quiet waiting area, overhead lights switched off, minimal people in the treatment room, stop signals, written or visual social stories on request, noise-cancelling considerations, and breaks whenever needed. Please mention your needs when you book and we'll prepare properly.
Do you offer acclimatisation visits?
Yes — for any age. An acclimatisation visit is a relaxed appointment with no treatment planned. You come in, meet Dr Alan and the team, have a look around the surgery, sit in the chair if you want to, and leave. No pressure, no clinical work. These visits are invaluable for anyone who finds new environments overwhelming.
Can a parent, carer or support person stay with me/my child?
Always. A parent, carer or trusted support person is always welcome to stay in the treatment room for the entire appointment. We actively encourage it — most patients are far more relaxed when someone trusted is present.
Do you offer sedation?
No — we don't offer sedation. Our approach relies on genuinely gentle, unhurried care: tell-show-do communication, numbing cream before any injection, extended appointments, breaks, and adjustments. For the vast majority of anxious or SEN patients this is more than enough. If you have needs beyond what we can offer, we'll be honest and refer you to a specialist service.
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Book an Acclimatisation Visit
Call us on 01438 355624 — please mention your needs when booking and we'll prepare properly for your visit.
✓ New patients welcome · ✓ Same-day emergencies · ✓ Written estimates provided