A conversation before the visit
Call ahead to share your child’s sensory, communication, mobility, health, or anxiety needs so we can plan thoughtfully.
Kids First services
Special needs pediatric dentistry in Zanesville, Ohio.
Every child deserves dental care that respects who they are. Kids First welcomes children and adolescents with special healthcare needs, sensory differences, communication differences, anxiety, and medical complexity.
A patient-first approach
Care built around the child in the chair.
We do not just fix teeth. We treat the patient. That starts by listening to a parent or caregiver about what helps their child communicate, regulate, and feel safe before a dental visit begins.
Board-certified pediatric training includes caring for patients with a broad range of developmental, physical, behavioral, and medical needs. Our Zanesville office welcomes families from across southeast Ohio — no referral is needed to begin a conversation with our team.
What this care means
The details that make a visit easier.
Care at your child’s pace
Some children benefit from a shorter introductory visit or from breaking care into smaller steps. We will discuss what is appropriate for your child.
Respect for the whole family
Families bring valuable expertise about their child. We want that insight before, during, and after the appointment.
Specific support for specific needs
Tell us what helps your child feel understood.
There is no single “special needs visit.” Every child brings a different set of strengths, concerns, and comfort needs. Kids First welcomes families from Zanesville and surrounding southeast Ohio communities, and we begin by listening to the people who know the child best.
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Autism, ADHD & developmental differences
A predictable routine, simple explanations, and shorter steps can make care feel more manageable. Tell us how your child learns, regulates, and responds to new experiences.
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Sensory processing differences
Light, sound, touch, taste, and unfamiliar smells can make a dental visit overwhelming. Share your child’s triggers before the appointment so we can plan thoughtfully; during treatment, children can watch the ceiling-mounted TVs.
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Dental fear & anxious visits
A difficult experience elsewhere does not define the next visit. We can begin with familiarization, child-friendly explanations, and a pace that helps your child build trust.
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Physical disabilities & mobility needs
Children with physical disabilities or mobility needs are welcome. Tell us what helps your child transfer, position comfortably, communicate, or move through the office.
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Down syndrome, cerebral palsy & medical complexity
A health condition, medication, syndrome, or history of complex care can affect a dental plan. Sharing that history helps the team prepare the right questions and next steps.
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Communication differences
Non-speaking and limited-verbal children are welcome. Bring the words, device, sign language, pictures, or routines your child already uses so we can follow your lead.
Start with a conversation before the appointment.
Call before you arrive and share what calms your child, what to avoid, and what a successful visit looks like for your family. We do not just fix teeth. We treat the patient.
For special needs dentistry
Why Kids First?
Every recommendation starts with the whole child — their health, comfort, development, and family — not just the tooth in front of us.
Board-certified pediatric expertise
Dr. Robert Malek is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a voluntary credential earned through specialty residency and examination.
We treat the patient
We do not just fix teeth. We treat the patient — taking time to understand comfort, development, health history, and what will make the visit work for your family.
Here for southeast Ohio families
Our Zanesville office welcomes children and adolescents from Newark, Cambridge, Coshocton, Lancaster, New Lexington, and surrounding communities.
Helpful answers
Questions parents often ask
Does my child need a referral to see Kids First?
No. Parents and caregivers may call Kids First directly to discuss a child’s dental needs and request an appointment.
Can I tell the office about sensory or communication needs before the appointment?
Yes. Please call before the visit and share anything that helps your child feel understood, such as communication preferences, sensory sensitivities, mobility needs, or medical considerations.
What if my child is anxious or cannot complete everything in one visit?
We will talk with you about an approach that fits your child. For some patients, a gradual introduction or shorter visits may be the right next step.
Kids First Pediatric Dental Care
Ready when your family is.
Tell us what your child needs. We will listen, explain the next step clearly, and help you find an appointment time that works.