If your child has special needs, it may be difficult to find a dentist who is familiar with his or her condition. Yedda Gomes-Ruane, DMD, of
Dentistry for Children at Weston, PA, has considerable experience providing special needs dentistry services to Weston area children. She explains how regular dental visits can help your child enjoy good oral health.
Which children fall into the special needs category?
Children who have certain dental or health-related conditions, such as a cleft lip or palate, dental birth defects, cerebral palsy, autism, bleeding disorders or heart problems are considered special needs because caring for their teeth may be more complicated.
Why are dental visits important for my special needs child?
If a visit to the dentist is a stressful experience for you and your child, you may decide that it's easier just to skip those regular visits. Although brushing and flossing can help prevent tooth decay, they're no substitute for regular dental care, particularly if your child's condition affects his or her teeth. For example if your child has cerebral palsy and suffers from seizures, tooth grinding may occur during the seizures. Frequent grinding may lead to cracked teeth and gum disease. If your child from suffers either of these conditions, prompt treatment is needed to prevent infections and tooth loss.
How can a pediatric dentist help my child?
Pediatric dentists are specially trained to treat dental problems in young children. They've treated countless children with similar issues and not only provide excellent dental care, but also know how to make visits as easy as possible for you and your child. If your child has a medical condition, such as heart disease or a bleeding disorder, the pediatric dentist will work with your child's doctors to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken.
How can a pediatric dentist help me?
Helping your child maintain good oral hygiene can be difficult if he or she isn't capable of handling the task alone or if there are dental defects or other issues that make brushing and flossing a challenge. A pediatric dentist will offer suggestions that will make it easier for you to manage dental care at home and keep your child's teeth strong and healthy.
If you live in the Weston area and have been putting off a much-needed dental exam for your special needs child, call pediatric dentistry specialist Yedda Gomes-Ruane, DMD, at (954)384-4560. Everyone deserves a healthy smile!