David, age 37, is described by his caregivers as joyful, humorous, and generous. He has a deep love for movies and cherishes time spent in nature. Like many individuals with severe autism, David experiences profound sensory sensitivities that make routine medical and dental procedures incredibly challenging. The typical sights, sounds, and sensations of a dental office can be overwhelming sometimes even traumatic.

Thanks to the support of Exceptional Needs Dental Services (ENDS), David is now. receiving the specialized dental care he needs. For David, this meant coordinating. treatment in a hospital setting environment where he could safely undergo essential. procedures under general anesthesia.

Recently, Dr. Zachary White performed David’s. dental treatment, addressing painful abscesses that had been affecting his ability to eat and diminishing his overall well-being. Since the procedure, David’s appetite has returned, and his caregivers are happy to report, “He’s eating much better now.”

With his health restored and his pain alleviated, David is once again fully engaged in the activities he loves most. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of accessible, individualized care and the life-changing difference it can make.

The ENDS program is a partnership established by three Oregon Dental Care Organizations:

• Capitol Dental Care
• Care Oregon Dental
• Willamette Dental

The ENDS Program connects David and others with providers like Dr. White, thanks to the dental care benefits made possible by the Oregon Health Plan (OHP). The care and compassion delivered by ENDS providers, combined with the essential support of OHP, ensure that patients like David receive the vital treatment they need to thrive.