770-664-1999
We Provide Disability Dentistry in Alpharetta, GA
Providing comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental care to patients who have special healthcare needs — disability dentistry — is an important aspect of the specialty of pediatric dentistry. We value the unique qualities of each young smile we treat, and seek to ensure maximal health for all, regardless of developmental disability or other healthcare issues.
What Is Disability Dentistry?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry defines special healthcare needs as “any physical, developmental, mental, sensory, behavioral, cognitive, or emotional impairment or limiting condition that requires medical management, healthcare intervention, and/or use of specialized services or programs.” Whether your child’s condition is congenital, developmental, or the result of disease or trauma, we can provide guidance and raise awareness of his or her special dental care needs.
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/special-needs
Special Needs Dental Concerns
Special needs kids may face particular dental issues with their dental development and their dental health needs, including:
Tooth eruption irregularities: the teeth in children affected by growth disturbances may be accelerated, delayed, or inconsistent. Down syndrome kid’s tooth eruption may be delayed by up to two years.
Teeth anomalies: irregularities in number, size, or shape of teeth can affect children with Down syndrome.
Medication issues: medications may pose a risk of tooth decay because they contain sugar, cause dry mouth, or even cause gum overgrowth.
At-Home Special Needs Dentistry Tips
The earlier you introduce your child to oral hygiene and good oral health, the easier it will be to make it a part of their daily routine. It’s important to start the process before your child gets their first tooth. Use wet gauze to wipe your baby’s gums. When teeth begin to emerge, brush them twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and floss daily.
Being patient with your child is particularly important if they have sensory problems, which are prevalent in autistic children. Start by gently touching your child’s hand and then cheek with a toothbrush, gradually moving on to the lips, and finally try brushing when you think they are ready. Remember that some brushing is better than none. Don’t look for perfection.
As your youngster gets older, an electric toothbrush may be easier for them to maneuver than a manual brush. Your child may also regard an electric brush as a fun novelty, encouraging them to clean their teeth.
Do not underestimate the importance of your child’s nutrition to their dental health. Limit starchy and sugary foods to keep their baby teeth free from decay. Just because baby teeth are temporary, that doesn’t mean they aren’t important.
What Qualifies a Special Needs Dentist?
Dental care for patients with special needs requires specialized knowledge acquired by additional training, as well as increased awareness and attention, adaptation, and accommodative measures beyond routine treatment. At our office, we have the experience necessary to provide suitable dental care while keeping in mind the unique nature of the children we see.
Sedation Dentistry Can Be a Helpful Tool
Sedation pediatric dentistry can provide a safe and effective way for young patients with special needs to get the professional dental treatment they need. Depending on your child’s condition, sedation options may include:
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas), which relaxes patients within minutes and wears off immediately after we stop administering it.
Oral conscious sedation, which suppresses activity in the brain responsible for fear, helping them feel comfortable and relaxed. Your child will have little to no recollection of their dental treatment, reducing apprehension about the dental office.
Make Crabapple Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Your Dental Home
It is our goal to create a dental home for your child, where treatment can be delivered safely, and ideal dental health can be achieved. It’s a good idea to bring your child in to meet us and get familiar with the space before they have a cleaning or other dental appointment. Contact us if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment. You can learn more about our practice on our business page, and make sure to get directions before you head our way.
