Special Needs Dentist for Kids in Lexington, SC
Reviewed by Dr. Kathi Sample, Children’s Dentist at Sunset Children’s Dentistry · Updated October 13, 2026
Every child deserves a dental visit that fits how they think, feel and communicate. At Sunset Children’s Dentistry, our board-certified pediatric dentists care for children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, developmental delays and complex medical needs. We plan each visit around your child, not the other way around.
What is special needs dentistry?
Special needs dentistry is dental care adapted for children whose physical, developmental, sensory or medical needs make a typical visit hard. Pediatric dentists complete two to three years of extra training after dental school, including caring for children with special health care needs.
In practice, that means we slow down, explain each step in simple words or pictures, and adjust the room, the tools and the schedule so your child can feel safe. Some children do best with a quick, quiet visit. Others need a few short “practice” visits before a full cleaning. We work with you to find what fits.
Looking for a Special Needs Dentist Near Me? Start Here
Sunset Children’s Dentistry at 5080 Sunset Blvd in Lexington sees children with special needs Monday through Thursday, 8 am to 5 pm. Families come from Lexington, Columbia, West Columbia, Irmo, Red Bank, Gilbert and Oak Grove. Call us before the first visit so we can plan the right appointment time and length.
STEP 1
Call Before the First Visit
Share your child’s diagnosis, triggers and what has worked before so we can plan the right time and room.
STEP 2
Meet and Practice
We can start with a short visit to meet the team, sit in the chair and get used to the sounds and tools.
STEP 3
Gentle Exam and Cleaning
We go at your child’s pace, explain each step, and stop when they need a break. You can stay with your child.
STEP 4
A Plan for Home and Next Visits
We share brushing tips that fit your child’s routine and note what worked so the next visit is easier.
Extra Time
Longer or shorter visits planned around your child’s needs.
Clear Communication
Simple words, pictures and tell-show-do at every step.
Sensory Comfort
Quieter rooms, dimmer lights and comfort items when helpful.
Parent Partnership
You know your child best, and we plan the visit with you.
Why Families Choose Sunset for Special Needs Dentistry
Families choose Sunset Children’s Dentistry because we do not rush. Our pediatric dentists are trained to care for children with special health care needs, our team learns what each child needs, and we keep notes so every visit builds on the last one. Many of our special needs patients stay with us from their first tooth through their teen years.
Dr. Kathi Sample
Trusted Children's Dentist in Lexington, SC
Dr. Jeffrey Jackson
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist in Lexington, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful answers for parents of children with special needs.
Does insurance cover special needs dental care for kids?
Most plans, including South Carolina Medicaid, cover checkups, cleanings and needed treatment. Our team can check your benefits before the visit.
Areas We Serve Near Lexington, SC
Families bring children with special needs to our Lexington office from across the Midlands, including Columbia and West Columbia, Irmo, Red Bank, Gilbert and Oak Grove.