4 Tips Designed to Ensure Healthier Smiles Among Children with Special Needs

It’s no secret that children with special needs can experience greater oral health problems. Those with intellectual and physical disabilities can struggle with dental decay, tooth loss, gum disease, and malocclusion. However, there are ways parents can help their children develop positive oral habits. By considering these four tips, children with special needs can have a better chance of living life with healthier teeth and gums.

Stay in Close Contact with Your Child’s Dentist

Finding a dentist who offers special needs dentistry can feel as if you have hit the jackpot. Not only will your child receive the oral healthcare they need but also in an environment where they can feel safe and comfortable.

But just as important is staying in close contact with your child’s dentist. This means keeping them updated on any medications as well as treatments that might positively or negatively impact their oral health. Doing so will ensure they have the latest information, which will benefit your child during their next visit.

Help Your Child Experience the Dentist at Home

In preparation for your child’s visit to the dentist’s office, you may find it helpful to role-play at home. Whether it is you playing the dentist or them, give them the opportunity to engage with various instruments and what it will be like to sit in a dentist’s chair with their mouth open.

You may also find it helpful to read books or watch videos with them that discuss dental visits, as this can help them become more excited instead of fearful of seeing the dentist.

Give Your Child Options When It Comes to Brushing Their Teeth

Depending on your child’s special needs, one kind of toothbrush may not be suitable. This is where it can be helpful to try out a few different kinds. You may find that they need something that allows for a tighter grip.

It can also be helpful to modify their toothbrush should you discover that they need something more ergonomic (i.e., placing their toothbrush in a tennis ball for a larger grip surface).

Following your child’s lead in determining which type of toothbrush and modifications are necessary will help them feel more confident when brushing their teeth.

Don’t Wait to Seek Dental Care – Start Early

Children of all ages and abilities need to begin seeing a dentist as early as possible. In most cases, pediatric dental offices welcome infants, toddlers, children, and teenagers. This goes for children with and without special needs.

Starting good oral hygiene habits early will give your child the best chance to enjoy a healthier smile for longer. Not only does it introduce them to the art of dentistry and what is required to keep teeth and gums free of decay, but it also makes future dental visits easier because of the relationships that can be formed from an early age.

Children of all types deserve high-quality oral healthcare. Working with a trusted pediatric dentist will ensure the best possible outcomes for your child’s smile, no matter their stage of development or intellectual or physical ability.

About the Practice
Kids Dentist is a pediatric dental practice in Grayslake that is led by a team of professionals who are committed to ensuring healthy, growing smiles. With four dentists and a team of qualified staff, we are here to make oral hygiene possible for patients of all ages and abilities. If you have a child with intellectual or physical disabilities, we invite you to contact us via our website or call (847) 223-1400 to learn how we can help.