Dentistry for Children with Special Needs

mother and child greeted by doctorProviding comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental care to patients who have special healthcare needs is an important aspect of the specialty of pediatric dentistry. We value the unique qualities of each young smile we treat, and seek to ensure maximal health for all, regardless of developmental disability or other healthcare issues.

TRAINING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS DENTISTRY

Pediatric dentists are specially trained to treat and manage patients with special needs of virtually any sort. Patients with Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and many other medical/developmental conditions demand that dental care be modified to address the unique demands of the patients special needs. We take an individualized and systematic approach to examination and treatment of your child, and actively involve you in their oral health education and treatment. If necessary, we will incorporate sedation dentistry into your child’s treatment to provide a safe, efficient, and effective dental care. 

doctor treating child patient

COMMON DENTAL PROBLEMS IN PATIENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS INCLUDE:

  • Delayed or absent teeth
  • Extra teeth
  • Malocclusion
  • Developmental defects
  • Trauma
  • Bruxism
  • Dental caries
  • Oral infections
  • Gum disease

WE OFFER A COMFORTABLE SETTING TO PUT YOUR CHILD AT EASE

It is our strong belief that no patient should should feel rushed. In the case of special needs children, it is even more important that they receive the time and opportunity to adapt to their new environment.  Often, patients seeing us for the first time have also had a bad dental experience elsewhere. There will always be times when we must treat a dental problem immediately.  In the long run, however, there is no replacement for taking the extra time at the beginning to properly understand each patient’s needs. Parents are encouraged to discuss the ways in which their special needs child is being cared for at home and on a daily basis.  This will help everyone – especially the patient – experience their dental visit in a more positive light.