Extra Care Where It Counts — 4 Crucial Benefits Of Special Needs Dentistry
Sometimes a little extra care can go an incredibly long way — and that’s certainly the case in the dentist’s office.
Going to the dentist can be a terrifying process for anyone, but it can be made considerably better by professionals who are trained in the extra care some patients may need.
This can include people anywhere on the spectrum of disability, including patients with ADHD, autism, down syndrome, MS, Parkinson’s, or many others.
It can also be beneficial for patients with sensory loss, including blindness or deafness, as well as patients in wheelchairs.
Here are four ways a special needs dentist can make your trip a little more comfortable.
- Extra Schooling
A special needs dentist isn’t just a regular dentist with some extra tools and wheelchair space.
These dentists have taken an extra 2 to 3 years of schooling focused specifically on the particulars of care for children and patients with additional needs.
This means that not only is your dentist prepared to offer any extra care you may want or need, but they’re trained to know in advance what your needs will likely be.
2. Gentle Approach
One of the biggest differences required for approaching some patients is simply a slower pace.
This includes taking the time to learn more about the specifics of your case, including dietary and medication requirements, and how they may affect your teeth.
It also means providing a more relaxed environment, which can help many patients and children become more comfortable with the dental staff before the procedures.
3. Sedation
While most dentists can offer local anesthetics, special needs dentists can offer a full range of sedation options.
For many patients, this is essential to having any dental procedures done comfortably.
Patients with sensory issues, such as those with autism, often find that sedation can make the entire process much easier to handle.
4. Caring and Understanding
This may sound silly to anyone who hasn’t experienced a special needs patient being treated by a non-special needs dentist… but it’s incredibly important and serious.
It’s not that regular dentists are uncaring beasts, it’s just that they often don’t understand what’s going on, and they have no idea how to handle it.
This can quickly change an already unpleasant situation into a nightmare.
A special needs dentist is in that particular field because they care, and with their extra schooling, they also understand the best ways that they can help.
It may not be a perfect solution to an unpleasant situation, but it’s definitely better than the alternative.
If you or someone you love needs a little extra care when going to the dentist’s office, it’s worth looking into special needs dentists in your area.
They’ll make sure you get the care you need, and the smile you deserve.
