Your special needs patient may require special dental health care services. Patients who have trouble practicing oral hygiene need to see their dentist more often to check for signs of dental problems, while others require more attention during the appointment. Those who suffer from a stroke, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, autism, downs syndrome, genetic disorders, paralysis and even arthritis are among the many who may need a little extra help when it comes to taking care of their teeth.
We know you want the best in dental care for your family. Now that you're ready to take your loved one to the dentist, we have some suggestions to help make their visit a little easier:
Choosing a Dentist -- Choose a dentist who accommodates special needs. A pediatric dentist may also be a good choice because of the special training they receive working with children. Many accredited dental schools now have classes devoted to working with special needs patients, and some provide care for the disabled in their clinics.
Preparing for the Dental Visit -- Preparation can help your special needs patient get ready for the dentist. Don't wait until the last minute to tell them about the visit or surprise them at the office. When discussing the dentist, visual aids from books or the internet can give the patient an idea of what to expect at the dental office.
At the Dental Office -- If you're familiar with the special needs patient's schedule, make an appointment during a time that's easy for them. Since the patient may be waiting for long periods of time, bring distractions to entertain them. It is also beneficial to make appointments with a dentist or dental hygienist the patient likes, so they see familiar faces on a consistent basis. And during the appointment, don't forget to dish out plenty of praise!
Accommodating Physical Handicaps -- When choosing a dentist, find out if they have wheelchair access and make a plan for transferring the patient to the dental chair. Let the office know if the patient needs to be restrained or supported during dental treatment. In some cases, a mouth prop can help keep the patient's mouth open when they can't do it on their own. When providing a medical history, list any allergies to dental materials, such as metal or latex.
Considering Sedation -- Because your dentist wants to provide the best care possible for your loved one, an alternative form of anesthesia may be needed. In extreme cases, sedation dentistry is used to relax a patient during treatment.
