Providing comprehensive preventive and therapeutic dental care to patients who have special healthcare needs is an important aspect of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Virginia. Our dentists value the unique qualities of each young smile we treat and seek to ensure maximal health for all, regardless of developmental disability or other healthcare issues.
The dental care and oral health of all children is important. For parents of children with special needs, they may find their child has additional oral health issues that need to be addressed. Or, their child may exhibit significant anxiety when going to the dentist. Therefore, parents are often looking to select an appropriate dentist for their special needs child. Consider the following aspects of special needs dentistry if you are searching for the right dentist for your child.
Select a Pediatric Dentist
A pediatric dentist will have appropriate training in dealing with the oral health of children. Part of their education includes training for how to care for children with special needs. They will be aware of what dental issues are common for different medical diagnoses. They can work with a pediatrician, if necessary, to create a care plan that includes both oral health and overall health. The office of a pediatric dentist will be designed especially to meet the needs of children. This will help alleviate fears of a child that may be anxious about the dental visit.
Seek Recommendations
A pediatric dentist with experience handling special needs patients will likely come recommended. Ask your pediatrician for a recommendation. Check out the dental office website and read the testimonials. This will help alleviate any concerns you have about the care the pediatric dentist will provide your child.
Consider a Team Office
If your child needs orthodontic treatment in the future, it may be best to seek a pediatric dentist that offers an orthodontic team under the same roof. This way your child will not have to adjust to a new office when they are ready for braces or other orthodontic treatments.
If you are seeking a pediatric dentist in the Richmond area of Virginia for your special needs child, contact us at (804) 739-0963. It is our goal to create a comfortable dental home for your child, where treatment can be delivered safely, and ideal dental health can be achieved. We look forward to meeting you and your child!