Special needs can include mental challenges like autism or ADD/ADHD. Some are also physically challenged and may require special accommodations to feel comfortable in the dental office while receiving dental care. Many children experience anxiety at the dentist’s office because they associate it with pain. At Restoration Smiles: Adult & Pediatric Dentistry, we provide sedation dentistry to allow the child to relax during their appointment so they aren’t scared. 

Special needs dentistry doesn’t just focus on children; adult patients with physical and mental limitations can also receive better care in a compassionate environment catered to their needs. Plus, many special needs patients have specific dental conditions that require specialized attention beyond what the average general dental practice can provide.

How Can Special Needs Dentists Help My Child?

Children who are disabled have unique needs when it comes to oral hygiene care. They often have special health considerations and difficulties in expressing themselves that make it challenging for us to provide the best oral care possible. For instance, a child on the autism spectrum may have sensitivities that make visiting the dentist difficult or even traumatic. 

Pediatric dentists are trained to address these needs and help children achieve good oral health despite their challenges. At-home dental care tips they provide can also be tailored to your child’s needs to ensure they can get the care they require. Regular visits to the pediatric dentist who can treat special needs children can also help catch any problems early so they can be treated before they lead to more significant issues and physical discomfort for your child.

Special Needs Dentistry Treatments

• Sedation dentistry is perfect for children who are too nervous about visiting the dentist's office. Children can be sedated before treatment to make them stay completely relaxed and comfortable the entire time. Then, they are woken up once their treatment is complete and can go home that same day without experiencing any pain or discomfort from their procedure.
• We also offer laughing gas to our patients who need help in calming down before their procedure begins or relaxing during their examination and cleaning. This safe form of sedation makes your child euphoric, making them less anxious and more at ease during the visit.
• For patients who have difficulty controlling their movements, we can accommodate their needs with oral conscious sedation. The medication is taken before their appointment, and then during it, they will remain awake but very relaxed. This option is ideal for individuals with specific disabilities or conditions that make sitting still for long periods difficult.

Special needs dentistry also goes beyond the mouth to address all aspects of your child’s health. The dentist may work with caregivers and other medical professionals to develop an overall health management plan covering all treatment aspects, from nutrition to medication management. Visit Restoration Smiles: Adult & Pediatric Dentistry at 2 Coolidge St Suite 202, Hudson, MA 01749, or call (508) 658-0661 to schedule an appointment.