The Importance of Pediatric Dentistry for Children with Special Needs

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, children with special physical or mental needs can receive complete dental care in a comfortable setting.

Every child needs to develop good oral hygiene and have routine dental care. However, for children with special needs, they are often at higher risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay, as well as sustaining oral trauma.

Whether your child has a condition that is congenital, developmental, or the result of a disease, special dental care is so important to their overall health. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, children with special physical or mental needs can receive complete dental care in a comfortable setting. Our team is compassionate and here to help patients accomplish dental care that they may have never had before.

What are Some of the Challenges?

Many children with special needs often have a lot of sensitivity around their mouths. As a child develops, parents and children will need help to deal with future oral structure changes and possible feeding issues. Other children with special needs often have a difficult time opening their mouths completely due to problems with the development of the jaw. This may make tasks like brushing and flossing difficult and make them more prone to gum disease and cavities. Some children with sensory challenges are often averse to the texture and sensation of a toothbrush or toothpaste in their mouth.

Not only can these challenges make oral health difficult to maintain, but they can make going to the dentist difficult. That’s why it’s so important for parents to find a pediatric dentist that is skilled in working with children with special needs. An experienced dentist will be a therapeutic partner for your child, one who listens and provides helpful resources.

Creating an Enjoyable Dental Experience

Any child may have a difficult time acclimating to the dentist at first. This can be even more true for a child with special needs. Working with a special needs pediatric dentist will enable your family to create a program that caters to your child’s specific mental, emotional, and physical needs. This in turn will create an enjoyable and comfortable dental experience for both your child and you.

Sedation Dentistry is an Option

For special needs children who have sensory challenges or high anxiety, sedation dentistry, or sleep dentistry, can be a safe and excellent option. It can offer you and your child the best experience, ensuring that your child receives the best dental care.

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, Dr. Hoffmann and Dr. Thoms complete dental procedures for patients with special needs requiring general anesthesia or sedation. Individuals with special physical or mental needs can receive complete dental care in a comfortable setting. Patients with special needs can have a thorough exam that includes taking x-rays and receiving a dental cleaning with general anesthesia.

Call us today to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting you!