Why should I choose a pediatric dentist for my special needs child?
Every child is different, especially when health challenges make dental treatment more complex. Our pediatric dentist, Dr. Greg, has completed specialized training in addition to years of experience, and his team brings extensive experience working with children who have sensory sensitivities, any of the autism spectrum disorders, and various other conditions. We ensure your child receives the compassionate, accommodating care they deserve!
Stress-Free Sedation Options
No child deserves to struggle with fear or pain during treatment. Sedation options are an effective way to help your kiddo get the care they need without discomfort or anxiety. Talk to Dr. Greg to learn more about what sedation option will best fit their needs.
The Benefits of Special Needs Dentistry
Better Patient Accommodations
We customize our environment and approach for each patient, adjusting lighting and sound levels for sensory sensitivities, using special equipment, and providing additional support staff as needed.
Expert Care For Every Patient
Our team brings deep experience treating patients with various physical, mental, and developmental needs. We know how to ensure your child's safety and comfort throughout their dental care journey.
Comfortable Sedation Options
Dr. Greg offers several sedation choices that allow patients to remain relaxed or sleep peacefully during treatment, making dental care accessible for those who might struggle in traditional settings.
The Special Needs Dentistry Process
Initial Health Discussion
Dr. Greg begins with a comprehensive consultation to understand your child's complete health picture. He will carefully review their medical history, current medications, therapy routines, and specific needs. Dr. Greg will also discuss any previous dental experiences, sensory sensitivities, and communication preferences to ensure he creates the most supportive environment possible. This thorough understanding helps him develop an approach that works best for your child's unique situation.
Oral Exam & Teeth Cleaning
During your child's first visit, Dr. Greg will conduct a thorough oral examination and cleaning at a pace that feels comfortable for them. This allows him to assess their dental development, identify any immediate concerns, and understand their unique oral health patterns. Dr. Greg uses this time to also observe how your child responds to different aspects of dental care.
Personalized Treatment Plan
After gathering all necessary information, Dr. Greg will sit down with you to discuss his findings and recommendations in detail. Together, you'll develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your child's immediate dental needs while considering their overall health requirements and comfort level. This plan explores all available options - from behavior management techniques to various sedation levels - ensuring your child receives exactly what they need for successful dental care.
Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Rest assured that your child is receiving top-notch, specialized care with Dr. Greg, our Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist. To be recognized by The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, doctors must undergo extensive training in the pediatric field in addition to their standard dental degrees.
Behavior Guidance Counseling
Sitting in the dental chair isn’t always easy! That’s why our compassionate team offers behavior guidance counseling. With our directions and upbeat approach, we’ll empower your child to face challenges, overcome obstacles, and gain confidence as they learn how to take charge of their oral health.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
Many conditions can impact your child's dental care experience, and Dr. Greg has experience working with children who have a wide variety of health challenges and special needs. When scheduling an appointment, please let Dr. Greg know about your child's specific condition so he can ensure his approach meets your family's unique needs and your child receives the most appropriate care possible.
Many children's liquid medicines contain sweeteners to make them more palatable. While this helps ensure children take their medication, these sugars can lead to cavities without proper oral care afterward. Some medications may also reduce saliva production, creating dry mouth conditions that increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and infections. Please share your child's medication list with us so we can develop appropriate oral care recommendations.
For children with physical, emotional, behavioral, intellectual, or communication disabilities, daily oral care might present unique challenges. Here's how you can help:
- Select a child-sized, soft-bristled toothbrush. Consider choosing one featuring their favorite character or color to make brushing more appealing.
- Try adaptive tools like large-handled brushes. If grip is challenging, you can secure the brush with a strap or guide it with your hand.
- Let your child choose from different fluoride toothpaste flavors and colors – finding one they enjoy can make a big difference.
- Take charge of toothpaste portions by applying it yourself, and supervise brushing to prevent swallowing.
- Transform brushing into a fun activity by incorporating songs, counting games, or the alphabet. This not only entertains but also helps ensure they brush for the right amount of time.
