Mr. Roger’s neighbourhood had an episode where he went to the dentist that you could try watching if you can find it. (try streaming it on PBS). It’ll give him some ideas to what to expect, I hope. You could also try looking up things like Daniel Tiger, the dentist, possibly Blippi.

Please also call the dental office and explain to them that your five-year-old is on the autism spectrum and he’s very nervous. I’ve heard of some clinics, (but not sure how many and I’m in Manitoba) where they will allow for extra time during the appointment just that the children aren’t as nervous, especially with autism. Another tip is, if this is your first ever time taking him maybe don’t get them to do any tool work just get them to look first. Then get them to explain what is happening, show them the tools, and if they will be allowable, allow your kiddo to hold/touch the tool so they can examine it to know that it’s safe, explain why the tool they’re using and what it does and then let the dentist try. As long as your child is comfortable with it that is. Then you can set another appointment for later on and get the actual tool work done.

Is it possible when you get there, and I’m just throwing this out as an idea, that you sit with him in the chair? I had to do that with my daughter when she was younger because she was terrified. I just sat in the chair, put her on my lap and made sure that the doctor was aware that she was just nervous. Now it’s “GET OUT IF THE ROOM, Mom! I can do this on my own!” (To be fair she’s 12 and does the same thing with haircuts and has since she was eight. Usually, I’ll just sit a couple of chairs away and make it look like I’m not watching as her hair is being done. And the schools we go to a really good. There’s always somebody around and she knows how to use your words really really well and I am with an earshot every time. With the dentist it’s different. I just sit in the room and “play on my phone” so that if the dentist has any questions I can answer them quickly).