Specials Needs Patients
Dr. Anderson and her team provide expert dental treatment to children with special healthcare needs (SHCN), too. We welcome patients with autism, developmental delays, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or other medical conditions. We know they can experience a high level of anxiety when faced with a new environment, so we go the extra mile to help them (and you) feel comfortable with us.
Compassion and patience are paramount to helping children and their parents have positive experiences at the dentist.
Scheduling
We schedule visits at a time when your child is most “alert” to create a successful visit—that means we consider your child’s reaction to noise, external activity, or other external stimuli.
Tailored Visits
We take into account each child’s special healthcare needs— from what triggers them, to what calms them, to things to talk about or avoid, or any “likes and dislikes”. We want to know what makes your child unique! We encourage parental involvement as we adapt to each child’s distinctive qualities so we can work together to make your child completely comfortable in their dental home.
Stress-Free Visits
We know that going to medical appointments of any kind can be challenging and stressful for both special needs children and their parents (or legal guardian). We aim to remove the stress associated with dental visits by making sure your child receives one-on-one attention from our dedicated team throughout the visit. Your child will get to know our office layout and our individual team members. We know how hard you work as parents to provide the best care for your special needs child and we want to be considered a part of your child’s healthcare team. Our goal is to provide your child with a dental home that adapts over time to meet your child’s ever-changing needs.
Sensory Needs
Many children with special healthcare needs often struggle to achieve optimal oral hygiene and health. In particular, children with sensory issues may not like the taste, texture, or sensation of toothpaste or toothbrushing. We make available to our special needs patients non-flavored toothpaste. We recognize that sensory issues may also impact your child’s diet and nutrition. At Spout Kids Dentistry, we will address your concerns, offer helpful resources and tools, and partner with you in your child’s oral care.
Dental Anesthesia
Anesthesia services for our Special HealthCare Needs patients are available at Franciscan Children’s Hospital. If you would like to learn more about hospital dentistry under general anesthesia, give our office a call today! We will happily answer any questions you have for us.
Dr. Anderson
Dr. Michelle Anderson is a pediatric dentist board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.