When Devon was small, a visit to the dentist could induce an episode of panic. Having a cavity filled, while unpleasant for anyone, was for him a nightmare.

But his dentist, Dr. Chrystalla Orthodoxou, had confidence that Devon, who has an autism spectrum disorder, could come to terms with a dental checkup — even with having a cavity filled.

As Chief of Dentistry at Premier HealthCare, a member of the YAI Network, Dr. Orthodoxou has the training and experience necessary to set patients like Devon at ease. It’s what sets Premier HealthCare apart from other medical practices. 

The doctors, dentists and specialist are trained specifically to treat people with developmental disabilities.  At Premier HealthCare practices, patients have a team of medical professionals – doctors, dentists, neurologists, psychologists, psychiatrists and other specialists – who ensure that care is delivered in a comprehensive, compassionate and sensitive manner.  

“For individuals with autism, who may have more difficulty understanding the importance of health care, anxiety can create significant obstacles to physical well-being and overall quality of life,” said Peter DellaBella, M.D., Medical Director of Premier HealthCare.

Dr. Orthodoxou, known as Dr. Chrys to her patients, spent several visits acclimating Deveon to the dental chair and instruments and developing a relationship with him.  He gradually began to trust her and overcome his fears.  

“The staff at Premier HealthCare take the time to understand each patient’s specific situation, help them overcome their fear and successfully complete the necessary clinical procedures,” Dr. Orthodoxou said.

Cathy, Devon’s mother, will never forget the day Devon was able to calmly have a cavity filled – an event that would have been unthinkable a few months before. “Dr. Orthodoxou called me later that day, saying, ‘I knew he could do it! I knew he could do it!’” she recalls.

Now 16 years old, to the dentist are easy for Devon; thanks in part to his regular checkups, he has been cavity-free for years.