Special Needs DentistryIf you’re the parent of a special needs child, it’s important to ensure that your little one gets the dental care they need to maintain a healthy mouth as they grow. At Smile Kids! Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Nadgie can help. We routinely treat special needs patients of all ages, and offer customized treatment in a fun, caring, and relaxed environment. Contact us now to get started. What Is Special Needs Dentistry?Special needs dentistry is the practice of treating children and adults who have special physical or mental needs. This can include patients with physical disabilities like muscular dystrophy, epilepsy, and congenital deformities, as well as those who have intellectual challenges such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, sensory processing disorder, and other such cognitive problems. The process of treating patients with special needs is complex, and often requires a customized treatment plan to overcome the physical or cognitive challenges facing the patient. At Smile Kids! Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Nadgie has years of experience treating special needs patients, and can provide your child with the treatment they need for a healthy mouth in a safe, comfortable, and caring environment. How Is Special Needs Dentistry Different From Pediatric Dental Care?Special needs dentistry mostly differs from “standard” pediatric dental care because it involves using a customized approach to dental care, rather than a “one-size-fits-all” approach. No two children are alike, and this is especially true for patients who have special needs due to physical challenges or cognitive issues. Special needs dentistry involves creating a dental treatment plan that takes your child’s unique needs into consideration, and providing personalized treatment within the limitations that your child may face due to their special needs. Sedation dentistry is also more common in special needs dentistry for patients who are able to undergo sedation safely. Sedation can help special needs patients of all ages feel more calm and comfortable and relax during their dental treatment. What Can I Expect During My Child’s Visit?If you are the parent or guardian of a person with special needs, Dr. Nadgie Ortiz will schedule a separate appointment or additional time before your child’s first appointment so that she can speak with you and your child about their needs and preferences. You will also need to discuss your child’s health history, medications, surgeries they have had, and other such medical records, if applicable. Using the information from your consultation, Dr. Nadgie can create a customized treatment plan for your little one. For example, if your child has a sensory processing disorder, we can provide earplugs and dark glasses, or offer sedation dentistry to keep them feeling calm and safe during their appointment. Over time, as we get to know your child, we’ll be able to offer even better care, and overcome the unique challenges associated with treating special needs patients. You can trust us to take great care of your child and keep their mouth healthy, no matter what unique challenges and difficulties may face them. |
Phone(276) 663-0065 HoursMon: 9:30am - 4pm Tues: 9:30am - 4pm Wed: 9:30am - 4pm Thurs: 9:30am - 4pm Friday: 9:30am - 4pm Saturday: We are open one Saturday a month by appointment. We are closed for federal Holidays. |