If you’re the parent of a special needs child, you’re likely aware of the daily challenges they face, even when it comes to simple routines like at-home dental upkeep. Whether it’s a behavioral issue or a lack of mobility, daily teeth maintenance can become difficult, leading to oral concerns like tooth decay and gum disease. In this article, we’ll discuss these obstacles to good oral health and helpful tips for caregivers wanting the best for their children.
Behavioral Problems May Impact Healthcare
Anxiety in dental patients is common enough but can be especially challenging for a special needs child. Fear of social settings or the pain involved in some oral procedures can make it very difficult to get them to visit the dentist. Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) may find it hard to sit still in a chair long enough to be worked on.
Sedation dentistry is a helpful option in this scenario. The dentist can administer different methods of calming the patient, including nitrous oxide through a gas mask, and general anesthesia for more advanced cases of anxiety or for prolonged treatment. These techniques can not only help ease the child’s apprehension but also make life easier for the caregiver.
Mental Disabilities Can Hinder Oral Hygiene
Developmental disabilities such as autism or Down syndrome give some special needs kids a tough time remembering and following directions, be it their parents’ instructions or their dentist’s.
Children with developmental challenges are also more prone to damaging oral habits such as clenching, food pouching, teeth grinding, mouth breathing, and tongue thrusting. These patterns can lead to tooth decay, misalignment, dry mouth, jaw pain or other issues with the jaw joint.
Sensory Sensitivities Can Make Dental Care Stressful
Children with special needs can be hypersensitive when it comes to things like lighting, texture, taste, and sounds. You may find your child doesn’t like the taste of the toothpaste or finds the dentist’s office too bright or loud.
Try different combinations of toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss to find the right fit that they like so they’re more likely to keep up their routine. When visiting the dentist, call ahead to schedule a visit just to get acquainted, no treatment involved. Pediatric dentists are specifically trained to handle special needs patients care and accommodation. They can optimize their office environment to make your child as comfortable as possible.
General Tips for Caring for Your Child’s Oral Health
- Brush alongside your child: Kids mimic their parents, so setting the example of how to brush and floss every day can be done by doing it together! It could turn into a fun activity the whole family looks forward to.
- Plan for success: Just as doctors suggest good sleeping hygiene by going to bed at the same time every night, making your child’s oral hygiene a routine at the same time every morning and night can get them in the swing of things. Set an alarm on your phone with a sound your child likes to encourage them.
- Find an experienced dentist. Locating a board-certified pediatric dentist who has a background in working with children with special needs can eliminate a lot of the stress associated with typical dentist visits. This specialist will focus on creating the most relaxed environment possible and will determine the best method of treatment for your child.
Caring for your special needs child’s oral health can be challenging, but with patience, planning, and the right professional care, these obstacles can be overcome!
About the Author
Board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Roxanne Clarke specializes in caring for her “little friends,” including ones with special needs! Dr. Clarke and her team at Kids Dental Space will go at the child’s pace and see to their every need, whether it’s adjusting the lighting and soundscape, providing sedation dentistry, or offering a “friendly visit” at first to get acquainted with your child. Schedule an appointment by visiting them online or calling their office at (443) 241-7575.