Special Needs Dental Care
 At Aurora Children’s Dentistry, we enjoy serving the children in our community with top-notch dental care. This includes children with special health care needs (SHCN). Our office is designed to ensure that children from all walks of life receive the care they need to maintain pristine oral health. If you are the parent of a SHCN patient, you have come to the right place.
Who Is Qualified to Provide Special Needs Dentistry?
Not every practice is equipped to handle special needs dentistry. We believe that each patient should be treated with the same level of care, which is why we specialize in procedures designed for children with physical, emotional, developmental, cognitive, sensory, or mental impairment. our doctor and the rest of our team have undergone specific training to ensure your child receives the appropriate care.
Our special pediatric needs dentistry is designed around our patients’ unique needs. Whether your child needs a cleaning or dental fillings, we can ensure they feel comfortable and safe. You may even find they look forward to their visits with us!
Your Child’s Appointments
An appointment with a special needs dentist may be a little different than a visit with a general dentist. It all begins with a consultation appointment. During the consultation, we will review your child’s medical and dental histories, any concerns or anxieties they may have, and other special needs. This allows us to tailor future appointments to best suit their circumstance.
Most routine appointments are simple and straightforward, consisting of a thorough exam and a cleaning. These appointments are also an excellent opportunity for you to ask questions and voice concerns, especially if you are having trouble with their at-home routine. our doctor may be able to recommend the appropriate toothbrush, toothpaste, and techniques to ensure your child avoids tooth decay and gum disease.
We also aim to overcome barriers that may prevent your child from receiving proper dental care. Some of these barriers include:
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Language impediments
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Vision and hearing issues
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Psychosocial issues like anxiety, fear, and previous negative experiences |
We may recommend sedation techniques if your child has severe dental phobias. Sedation is a safe and effective way to help your child manage their fears and relax during procedures. Ask about our sedation options at their initial consultation!
Special Considerations
We understand that many special needs patients view a trip to the dentist as a potentially painful experience. As a part of our special considerations, we practice compassionate dentistry and emotional competence. Our team will greet and communicate with your child in a friendly, open, and patient manner. It is our emotional competence that truly sets us apart from other dentists.
If a difficult situation does arise, it is important to remain calm. Many children pick up on our fears and anxieties, which will only exacerbate the situation. With your help, we can make sure your child has the most comfortable experience possible, even if an episode occurs.
Schedule an Appointment
If you would like to learn more about our many dental services, our team is happy to help. Call (907) 336-1234 to schedule your child’s appointment today!
FAQs
What is special needs dental care for children?
Special needs dental care is personalized dental treatment for children who may need extra support due to physical, developmental, behavioral, sensory, or medical conditions. At Aurora Children’s Dentistry, our dental team works to create a comfortable, respectful experience while helping each child maintain healthy teeth and gums.
How can a pediatric dentist help a child with special healthcare needs?
A pediatric dentist can adapt the dental visit based on the child’s communication style, comfort level, medical history, and sensory needs. Our dentists may use a gentle approach, explain each step, adjust the pace of care, and work with parents or caregivers to help the child feel more secure.
What should I tell the dental team before my child’s visit?
Before your child’s visit, share any medical conditions, medications, allergies, sensory sensitivities, communication preferences, behavioral triggers, and successful calming strategies. This information helps our dental team prepare for the appointment and provide care that is better suited to your child’s needs.
Can sedation be used for children with special needs?
Sedation may be considered for some children with special needs when it can help them receive dental care safely and comfortably. Our dentists will review your child’s health history, dental needs, and level of cooperation before discussing whether sedation or another comfort option may be appropriate.
How can I help my child prepare for a special needs dental appointment?
You can help your child prepare by talking about the visit in simple, positive terms, practicing opening their mouth at home, bringing comfort items if helpful, and sharing your child’s needs with Aurora Children’s Dentistry before the appointment. Our dental team can work with you to make the visit as supportive as possible. |
