Special Needs Dentistry – Auburn, MA
Where All Children Can Achieve a Healthy Smile
At New England Kids, our team believes that every child deserves to enjoy life with a healthy smile. This is why we
are pleased to offer special needs dentistry to children with intellectual and physical disabilities. If you are
concerned about your child receiving necessary oral healthcare because of the challenges that come with certain
health conditions, you can contact our team today to learn how we can make sure they obtain essential treatment in a
safe, comfortable, and accommodating environment.
Special Needs Present Unique Oral Challenges
Patients who have intellectual or physical disabilities or other medical conditions can experience many challenging oral health issues. Some of the most common include:
- Early or late tooth eruption
- Early gum disease among children with conditions that impact their immune system
- Teeth grinding among children with cerebral palsy or other similar conditions
- Dental trauma brought on by seizures
- Genetic dental traits (i.e., malformed or missing teeth)
- Improper bite alignment, which can be common among those with muscular dystrophy or craniofacial disorders
If your child has any of the above mentioned issues, it’s important that they receive regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months, as this is the most effective way to keep their smiles clean and healthy. Our team can check for signs of decay, gum disease, worn tooth enamel, and improper bite alignment to make the appropriate recommendations for treatment during these visits.
How Do We Help Our Patients with Special Needs Feel Comfortable?
At New England Kids, our team works with children who have intellectual and physical disabilities to provide the essential services needed to help maintain healthier smiles. With decades of experience, we will do everything we can to work with you, the parent, to make sure your child has what they need to enjoy a positive dental experience.
We provide nitrous oxide sedation and hospital-based dentistry should we believe your child would benefit from these services. We also never rush any appointment but instead, take our time to make sure your child remains comfortable and at ease throughout their visit.
Dental Tips for Our Patients with Special Needs
When looking to improve your child’s oral hygiene habits at home, there are a few tips we can provide to make this daily routine easier:
- Find the right oral hygiene instruments that align with your child’s needs. This might mean finding a toothbrush with a larger grip. Also, you may need to assist your child in brushing and flossing their teeth to ensure it is done correctly.
- Speak positively about good oral hygiene, as this will encourage your child to want to take care of their teeth and gums.
- Start bringing them to see a pediatric dentist when they are young so that we can establish a positive relationship early on. This will help them feel more comfortable each time you bring them in for a visit.
Special Needs Dentistry FAQs
What should I do to make sure my child’s appointment is successful?
We understand bringing your child in for their first appointment can cause uncertainty. Before their initial visit, you can talk to them about what they can expect – the process, the atmosphere, the people they will meet, etc. It’s also helpful to explain why seeing the dentist is important to maintain good oral and overall health.
Once you reach our office, we will continue with this positive approach, making sure your child remains comfortable and at ease from start to finish.
Are pediatric dentists trained to provide special needs dentistry?
Yes, dentists specializing in pediatric dentistry receive advanced training so that appropriate care and attention are delivered to children with intellectual and physical disabilities, or those with special needs.
Our team at New England Kids has decades of experience working alongside parents to provide their children with high-quality solutions designed to improve oral health. There are no rushed appointments or jumping between patients. We offer our undivided attention, making sure we understand the needs of your child and how best to create a positive, welcoming, and safe environment.
Which preventive services are most helpful to children with special needs?
Children with intellectual and physical disabilities are just like any other child in that regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing are essential. Also, consuming a diet full of healthy, nutrient-rich foods can increase the potential for better oral and overall health.
Our dental team will work with you to establish good oral habits they can adopt at home, in addition to offering instruction on ways to brush and floss that make it easier for your child. If necessary, we can provide product recommendations based on their unique needs – those that can make oral hygiene less stressful.
We also suggest children with special needs receive fluoride treatment and dental sealants, as they offer great protection against cavities and tooth decay.
Is dental sedation available to calm my child?
Yes, New England Kids provides nitrous oxide and hospital-based dentistry should your child need dental sedation. Our team can ensure their comfort and create a more secure space, allowing them to relax in the treatment chair.
If you think your child might need either of these options during their upcoming appointment, please let us know when calling to schedule an appointment.
