If your child has a physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition, then their medical needs are likely a top priority. Of course, it’s important to remember that dentistry is a part of that, especially since children with special needs are vulnerable to certain oral health conditions, like overcrowding and gum disease. To learn three key factors that impact special needs dentistry, read on.
Factor #1: At-Home Oral Hygiene
Whether your child’s teeth are waiting to break through the gumline or all of them have fully emerged, it’s of the utmost importance that you implement a solid oral hygiene routine. The key is to start early so it’s a part of their regimen from the beginning. You can also find flavors and textures that they prefer to make this process easier. For example, if your child doesn’t like traditional mint toothpaste, try a fun alternative, like strawberry, or a flavorless one.
Factor #2: Diet
Sugar is one of the biggest culprits of cavities. So, it’s best to keep your child’s intake of sugary foods and beverages to a minimum. The best way to do that is to keep healthy snacks in the house, like pre-cut vegetables and yogurt. Of course, you may not want to cut out special treats entirely, and you certainly don’t have to. When it’s time to indulge, ask them to rinse their mouth with water afterward and don’t wait too long to complete their oral hygiene regimen.
Factor #3: The Right Dentist
In short, not all dentists have experience treating children with special needs. So, it’s important to find the right dentist. This will help ensure that you have a place to turn with all of your oral health-related questions, that dental problems are discovered (and treated!) in the early stages, and that your child gets a thorough cleaning every six months or so to prevent cavities and gum disease from developing in the future.
Healthy teeth and gums don’t just help your child smile confidently, they also play an instrumental role in a healthy bite and clear speech. So, do your best to protect them throughout the years by keeping the above information in mind!
About the Practice
Our team at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is proud to welcome patients of all ages – from infants to teenagers! If your child has special needs, then you can trust our highly trained and compassionate team to tend to their dental needs. Plus, we offer calming sedation dentistry if they need some assistance relaxing in the treatment chair. If you want to learn more about the factors that impact special needs dentistry or you’d like to schedule an appointment for your child, then don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (781) 767-7200.