3 Ways to Protect Your Child's Teeth
Prevention and early intervention are the best tools available to protect your child’s teeth from cavities and other oral health problems. Here are three tips to help protect your child’s teeth and gums.
Tips to Prepare Your Child With Special Needs for the Dentist
Some children with special needs face additional obstacles to getting the dental care they need. Whether your child has autism or a physical condition like diabetes or cerebral palsy, taking a few precautionary steps will take much of the stress and anxiety out of their dental visits.
At Oasis Pediatric Dental Care and Orthodontics, our dentists Dr. Nathalie Phaeton, Dr. Ki Youn Kil, and our team offer pediatric dentistry services in a comfortable and compassionate setting at our office in Falls Church, Virginia.
Tips to prepare your special needs child for the dentist
Feeling stress, anxiety, and fear at the thought of going to the dentist is a normal experience for many people of all ages. If your child has special needs like sensory issues or limited mobility, a simple trip to the dentist for an exam and cleaning can be both frightening and challenging.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare your child and make the experience as comfortable as possible:
1. Find your child a dental home
Finding the right dentist for your special needs child is the first and most important step in getting the dental care they need. Establishing a “dental home” allows your child to get to know their dentists and build trust that allows them to feel comfortable and safe at every appointment.
2. Schedule a consultation before your child’s appointment
If your child is taking medications, has specific triggers or dental phobias, or requires special accommodations, contact the office before your child’s appointment to discuss their needs. You can ask questions and address any concerns you may have, which will allow you to prepare your child and help reassure them before the appointment.
3. Bring your child’s favorite entertainment and comfort items to the appointment
Personal items like books, video games, music, and toys are a great way to help your child remain calm and at ease during their appointment. This is especially true if they have anxiety triggered by certain sounds (like drilling), or feel nervous at the sight of dental tools, for example.
4. Give your child positive reinforcement before the appointment
Many people have negative associations with the dentist, and younger children are no exception. Understand your child’s triggers and stressors beforehand, and discuss their dental treatment using positive and encouraging language to help put them at ease.
Depending on your child’s circumstances and treatment, sedation dentistry may be a good option.
For more information and tips to help prepare your special needs child for their next visit to the dentist, contact us by phone or online today to schedule an appointment.
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