We’re passionate about helping children enjoy the countless benefits of a healthy smile. We’re always ready to welcome little ones of all sorts, including those who have unique circumstances that may make it difficult for them to sit through a dental appointment. As your special needs dentist in Center, we have the experience and skill necessary to help these precious young ones achieve excellent oral health.
The Importance of Special Needs Dental Care
All children need regular dental visits to maintain healthy teeth, but the need is especially great for kids who have certain behavioral, cognitive, and emotional disorders. For example, these children may be more likely to grind their teeth or engage in other activities that put their oral health at risk. Monitoring these habits and striving to stop them is an essential part of sparing these young ones from the long-term consequences that these behaviors can lead to.
For other special needs children, their dental condition has little to do with their behavior and everything to do with genetics. They may have congenitally missing teeth, extra teeth, or teeth that do not erupt like they should.
In some cases, the treatment for a child’s condition may lead to dental health problems. For instance, certain medications can cause dry mouth, while other medications may contain high amounts of sugar. Preventive care is essential for these children so they can avoid the pain of tooth decay.
How We Accommodate Special Needs Children
Not every dentist has the level of understanding and experience necessary to properly care for special needs children. They often require extra patience and compassion, and their treatment procedures may require some extra steps. For example, while most children can sit through a routine teeth cleaning with no problem, special needs kids may need sedation to help them relax through even the simplest dental treatment.
We’ll be sure to have a thorough discussion with you about your child’s unique needs so we can design a treatment plan that will make them feel comfortable.
Your Role as a Parent
When you come into our office for your child’s appointment, please feel free to ask us any questions you may have about how to help your little one care for their teeth at home. Some children do not like to have their teeth brushed, while others have a strong gag reflex that makes it difficult for them to undergo any sort of oral care. If you are experiencing any such issues, please let us know so we can give you advice on how to handle the situation. With a little patient effort, we can work together to help your child establish habits that will benefit their teeth for a lifetime.
Every child’s smile is precious. We hope to help your unique little one enjoy all the benefits of healthy teeth and gums.
About the Dentist
As your children’s dentist in Center, Dr. Thomas Youngblood is truly passionate about caring for young smiles. He takes a gentle and empathetic approach to dentistry, and he is happy to care for children from all walks of life. If you would like to talk to him or ask questions about how we can accommodate your special needs child, please contact us at 936-657-1942.