Optimize Your Child’s Oral Health with Special Needs Pediatric Dentistry
At Simply Kids Dental, our mission is to transform each dental experience into a delightful and stress-free journey. This commitment extends to ensuring that patients with special needs receive exceptional care for their oral health in an environment characterized by comfortable care and reassurance. Dr. Sean, with his extensive education and experience raising eight children, including one with special needs, deeply understands the diverse needs of each child and will tailor the care to deliver an optimal visit.
If you have a child with a physical, emotional, cognitive, or other disability, it’s natural to worry about their dental care. Like everything else, these children require specialized attention when it comes to their oral health. Simply Kids Dental offers special needs pediatric dentistry to ensure your child receives the dental care they deserve.
Who needs special needs pediatric dentistry?
The definition of special health care needs (SHCN) may be more extensive than you think. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) refers to a person with SHCN to have impairment or limitations in the following areas.
- Physical
- Emotional
- Cognitive
- Sensory
- Behavioral
- Mental
At Simply Kids Dental, we understand that children with special needs require specialized dental care. Our commitment to serving all children extends to those with unique challenges. Our team is trained to address specific needs such as managing dental anxiety and strong gag reflexes. Moreover, our office environment is designed to offer reassurance, comfort, and a calm atmosphere. Whether your child has autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, a physical disability, or other developmental disorders, they will receive compassionate and specialized care at our office.
Are children with special needs at a greater risk of dental issues?
Yes, children with special needs face a higher risk of developing dental problems compared to their peers without disabilities. Here are some reasons why:
- Intellectual disabilities can make it challenging for the child to grasp and maintain proper oral hygiene practices.
- Physical disabilities may hinder their ability to perform effective oral care without assistance.
- High levels of anxiety in children with special needs often result in fewer dental visits and preventive care.
- Medical conditions such as epilepsy are linked to dental issues like bruxism (teeth grinding), which can lead to dental damage.
- Seizures or impaired motor skills can increase the likelihood of dental trauma.
- Certain medications prescribed to children with special needs may cause dry mouth, raising the risk of gum disease.
Given these factors, proactive dental care tailored to the specific needs of children with disabilities is crucial to maintaining their oral health.
Why should children with special needs see a pediatric dentist?
Pediatric dentists undergo extensive training in managing children’s dental care, including those with special needs. Dr. Sean Vostatek, trained as a board-certified pediatric dentist, brings a deep understanding of the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of children. This experience enables him to adeptly handle various medical temperaments and personalities, building lasting relationships with every child.
Moreover, our practice is skilled in the safe administration of sedation and hospital dentistry, which can greatly benefit children who experience severe anxiety or struggle to remain still during dental procedures. We also employ comfort techniques such as distraction methods to minimize stress and ensure a positive dental experience for every child. Moreover, we extend an open invitation for family members or friends to assist patients during their appointments.
Our objective is to establish a dental home, characterized by the safe delivery of treatment and the attainment of sustained dental health and wellness for your child.
Is there a special needs children’s dentist near me?
Whether your child’s special needs stem from congenital factors, injury, or illness, we are equipped to offer appropriate care to achieve optimal wellness for your child. If you are in Colorado Springs and the neighboring communities, call (719) 249-2030 to schedule an appointment with Simply Kids Dental for special needs pediatric dentistry.
