As a child grows, there is an important need for proper dental care. When it comes to special needs children, there are common problems that require even more attention. While some special needs kids find it very stressful to go to the dentist’s office, it’s important that you make this part of your yearly healthcare routine.
Oral Health Challenges for Children with Special Needs
Children with special needs often have sensitivity in various areas of their mouth. As your child grows, there are changes within the mouth that can cause problems with eating, speaking, etc. Having a trusted pediatric dentist who understands these challenges is very important. If your child has difficulty opening their mouth, holding their mouth open, or getting over their anxieties, there are ways to promote a good oral health routine. You still need to make sure that your child is avoiding bad habits that could lead to dental disease. A knowledgeable dentist can talk to you about a diet that reduces refined sugar as a way to prevent cavities.
Helping Special Needs Children Acclimate to the Dentist
There are both children and adults that have anxiety about going to the dentist. Even a regular checkup can bring on some unpleasant emotions. Working with a pediatric dentist that your child feels comfortable with can help establish the routine that your family needs. There are some ways that you can make a trip to the dentist more enjoyable for your special needs child. The first appointment can sometimes be used for nothing more than acclimating your child to the office. Getting them used to the location and what goes on is helpful. It’s nice when your child walks into an office like ours, where there are books, toys, and plenty of welcoming staff members. When you’re confident that your child is ready, making an appointment to have your child’s teeth looked at would be the next step.
Sedation Dentistry is an Option
There are special needs children that just can’t get over their fear of the dentist. There’s nothing wrong with this. There are adults that are the same way. Sleep dentistry is a very safe option for getting your child the dental care that they need. The sedation is done very safely in a hospital setting with coordinated help from your pediatrician and hospital staff. Children with high levels of anxiety or sensory issues will benefit greatly from this option. It’s easy to simply skip a visit that brings on anxiety, but there are many health conditions that can be spotted by a dental professional that specializes in kids dentistry. In many cases, a dentist can notice a health issue before a primary physician would be able to.
Schedule a consultation
If your special needs child is in need of a Pediatric Dentistry in Boston appointment, give Sprout Kids Dentistry a call 617-328-1700. We have a very helpful and welcoming staff that can make any dental appointment a breeze for your special needs child. We can’t wait to see you!
Dr. Michelle Anderson is a pediatric dentist board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
