Find a dentist who supports your child’s oral health for a happy smile. 

When your child has a disability of any kind, certain things can become much more difficult. Finding the perfect dentist for your child is certainly one of them. Often, their oral health is one of the last things on the to-do list, but children with special needs can be at a higher risk for issues with their dental health. This varies, depending on the medications they are on, and their unique sensory needs and anxieties. Each child is unique, and their dentist should be able to work with them every step of the way. Here are 5 things to consider when looking for a pediatric dentist for your child with a disability. 

1. Does the dentist work specifically with children with special needs?

When it comes to finding a pediatric dentist for your child with special needs, just finding a place for children isn’t always enough. Not every dentist is specifically trained to work with different disabilities. It is important to ask the prospective dentist if they are equipped to work with your child’s specific disability, whether this is working with their sensory issues, or adjusting the exam room to fit your child’s needs. The right pediatric dentist will want to discuss your child’s dental history with you, to both formulate the perfect plan for them and to make sure they are the right dentist for your child.

If the dentist you first call isn’t the right fit, be sure to ask them to point you in the right direction. They want to help you and your family find the right dental home, and they just might have some good ideas. 

2. Is a pediatric dentist or a family dentist right for my child?

One very important step in finding the perfect dentist for your children is finding a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists go through extensive, specialized training—two to three years, to be exact. This is evident in everything from how the practice is decorated with the child in mind, to how we talk to the child themselves. And if that isn’t enough, pediatric dentists are also trained in how to talk to you, the parents. If your toddler is having a hard time dropping the pacifier habit, they can help you find a way to change that.

3. What about sedation dentistry?

Depending on your child’s specific needs, it might be wise to look into a dentist who has access to sedation dentistry. This skill can come in handy if your child requires a more intense dental procedure or has severe dental anxiety. There are three types of sedation that can be used: nitrous oxide (laughing gas), conscious sedation, and general anesthesia. 

General anesthesia is usually administered in a hospital setting, as your child will be completely unconscious in this situation. But conscious sedation and nitrous oxide can sometimes be used in-house if the dentist is set up for it.

If sedation dentistry is the best fit for your child, their dentist will be able to answer any questions you might have about these options.

4. What if my child needs accommodations?

By law, dentists are required to make accommodations for children with disabilities—whether by ensuring that the facility is wheelchair accessible, or by providing a sign-language interpreter. If your child is in need of an interpreter during their visit, be sure to contact the dentist prior to the appointment date and let them know. That way, everything can be in place ahead of time to make your child’s visit a comfortable one.

5. Does the dentist offer introductory visits?

It is recommended that your child visits the dentist for the first time for  a meet and greet before their actual appointment. This is a great time for them to get to know the staff and even explore the exam rooms. This way, your child can feel just a little more comfortable when the day arrives.

If your child has any communication difficulties, this is a good time to go over them in detail with the staff as well.

Pediatric Dental Specialists is experienced in working with children who have a disability. 

Remember that things will get easier with each visit. It’s okay and completely normal for your child to be nervous when the time comes for their appointment. Each time they get to meet and talk with the dental team, they will feel a little more at ease. Just keep that communication open, and everyone can work together to make it a good experience for your child.

Pediatric Dental Specialists specialize in providing care for children with disabilities and medical conditions. If you or your family have any questions or concerns, whether it is for an upcoming visit or for help with your child’s oral health routine at home, please feel free to contact us. We want to be there for your family in any way we can.