Special Needs Dentistry
Children with special needs have special considerations when it comes to dental care. Health issues, previously existing conditions, developmental delays, and other conditions can all affect your child’s access to dental care.
This is why it’s important to work with a pediatric dentist in New Orleans, LA, who has experience with special needs patients. Parents bring their children to Uptown Pediatric Dentistry because we have experience with children of all ages, health statuses, and developmental abilities. If you have a special needs child, we’re here to help.
What Is Special Needs Dental Care?
Special needs dental care refers to dental care for children with various conditions, including cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. The team at Uptown Pediatric Dentistry is committed to helping children maintain healthy teeth and gums. We’re committed to accommodating the special needs of our patients to ensure that each patient has access to high-quality dental care.
Why Choose Us for Special Needs Care?
The team at Uptown Pediatric Dentistry has experience working with children who require special needs care. Here’s what you can expect when you bring your child to our dental office.
- Compassionate dental professionals: We’re the pediatric dental experts. We have years of experience ensuring that our patients receive personalized care to help them maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Gentle care: Our dental professionals provide gentle care for our patients. We want your child to be as comfortable as possible throughout their appointment.
- Supportive environment: Every child needs a supportive environment to get their dental care. We specialize in helping children with special needs receive dental care in an office where they can feel safe and supported.
Sedation Dentistry for Children With Special Needs
One of the tools that we can use to help your child feel comfortable and supported at the dentist’s office is sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry allows the dental team to perform treatments while helping your child stay relaxed throughout the process.
Sedation is only used when necessary and is administered by experienced dental professionals. We’ll start by assessing your child’s medical history and ability to cooperate before deciding whether and what kind of sedation is right for them. Your child’s safety is our utmost priority. Children who are unable to stay still throughout a dental appointment may not be safe, so sometimes sedation is the best option.
Parental Collaboration
Parents play an important role in their child’s dental health and comfort at the dentist’s office. We work with parents to help them understand how they can maintain their child’s oral health at home. We also invite parents to prepare their child for their dental visits, so your child can feel more comfortable throughout their appointment.
We work closely with parents to ensure that dental visits go smoothly, so our patients can feel comfortable and safe while they’re in our care. We also do what we can to help you maintain your child’s dental health at home.
Creating A Comfortable Dental Office For Your Child
Some children with special needs have sensory sensitivities. We help your child manage their anxiety using proven strategies to accommodate their needs. We watch for behavioral changes in your child and act quickly to help your child stay comfortable and low-stress throughout their appointment.
Common Conditions In Special Needs Children
Down Syndrome
Children with Down syndrome sometimes have a misaligned jaw, delayed tooth eruption, and a higher risk of various dental conditions. It’s important to monitor your child’s dental health closely to ensure they have the best dental health possible.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Children with autism may have extra sensitivity to stimulation, like strange noises or bright lights. Our dental professionals help your child adapt to dental sounds and sights gradually so your child can relax during their dental appointment.
Special Needs Dental Care Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child see the dentist for the first time?
Your child should see the dentist by the time they turn 1 year old or within the first 6 months of their first tooth erupting. Taking your child to the dentist starting from an early age can help your child adapt to seeing the dentist and gettingregular dental care.
Will my child face special challenges when it comes to oral hygiene?
Special needs kids can have unique oral health concerns. These health concerns vary but may include:
- Difficulty brushing their teeth or taking care of their oral hygiene
- Side effects from medication (like dry mouth)
- Increased risk of various dental conditions
- Difficulty communicating pain when having a dental problem
Your child’s dentist will help you navigate these challenges to help your child maintain healthy teeth and gums.
How can I prepare my child for their dental visit?
Talk to your child about their upcoming appointment with the dentist. Schedule the appointment for a time when your child is usually calm. Read your child stories and talk to your child positively about the dentist. You may also bring your child’s favorite toy to the office. Be sure to disclose any information about your child’s preferences before the dental appointment begins.
What happens during the dental appointment?
What happens during the dental appointment may vary depending on your child’s dental health, age, and diagnosis. The first appointment may include a discussion of your child’s medical history, a conversation about questions and concerns, an evaluation of your child’s dental health (if tolerated), and a discussion about future dental appointments.
We’re Here to Help – Make Your Child’s Dental Appointment Today
We want your child to have healthy teeth and gums, and we’re here to make that possible. For more information about special needs dentistry, contact the office to make your first appointment or ask questions. Kids need good dental care, and we’re here to make that possible.
As your pediatric dentist in New Orleans, LA, we’re here to provide the best dental care for your child. We’re looking forward to meeting you and your child! Contact us to get started.
