Seven-year-old Tavaris was only three when he and his mom arrived at CDTC in need of help. The Extraordinary Children, Healthy Outcomes (ECHO) program stepped in to help. The little boy with autism would require the speech, occupational, and behavior therapy to help him communicate his needs without frustration and overcome his developmental delays.

By the time he arrived in Dr. Alonso’s dental chair, Tavaris already had three of his front teeth extracted by another dentist because of tooth decay. The inability to communicate well and the pain of extraction was traumatic. For mother and child, the experience was a bad one. CDTC’s Dental Team had a new challenge to soothe his fears, make him comfortable and prevent more decay.

Time, patience and the right techniques were just what Tavaris needed. He had to sit on Mom’s lap to stay still and allow dental work to be done during his early appointments. Today, he climbs into the chair on his own while mom waits. Using mild sedation has made treating his remaining cavities and decay so much easier on everyone.

Tavaris’ high energy makes sitting still difficult. “I’m bored” is a common conversation while he’s in the chair. “Behavior is still an issue,” shares Dr. Alonso. “But, he tries so hard to be good for the team.”

Mom’s doing her part too. She’s been consistent in bringing him to appointments and keeping away sweets. The efforts are paying off, Tavaris is all smiles in the Dental Clinic and cavities are not coming in like they used to.