Special Needs Children

If you have a special needs child who has challenges that make going to the dentist difficult, the experts at Hendricks Dental Specialists in Brentwood, Tennessee, are here for you. The family dentistry and orthodontic specialists offer comprehensive oral health care for special needs children to make dental experiences enjoyable. Call the office to schedule a dental exam, or use the online booking feature today.

What are the dental challenges special needs children may have?

Not all special needs children have difficulty visiting their dentist, but some do. It depends on the type of physical or mental disability they struggle with. Some special needs children have extreme dental anxiety during dental visits, while others have a hard time keeping their bodies still during dental appointments. 

The dental experts at Hendricks Dental Specialists specialize in caring for special needs children, making them feel at ease when visiting with dental providers. 

Which dental services are available for special needs children?

Special needs children benefit from the same dental services as their peers, including:

• Comprehensive pediatric dentistry
• Digital X-rays
• Nitrous oxide
• Dental exams
• Dental cleanings
• Sealants
• Flouride treatments
• Fillings
• Dental bonding 
• Crowns
• Extractions
• Invisalign®
• Braces

Nitrous oxide is a gas your child breathes in through a mask to calm them and help them relax during dental visits.

What happens during dental visits with special needs children?

At dental appointments for special needs children, friendly providers at Hendricks Dental Specialists greet your child and show them to their dental chair. If needed, they compassionately offer assistance getting them comfortable in the chair.

The Hendricks Dental Specialists team reviews your child’s oral health history, medication regimen, lifestyle habits, and symptoms they might have. They also offer nitrous oxide to help your child sit still or remain calm. 

Your child’s hygienist takes dental X-rays if needed and gently cleans and flosses their teeth. They use specialized dental instruments to do so. Hendricks Dental Specialists provides dental sealants, customized night guards, and fluoride treatments to protect your child’s teeth from decay.

A dentist examines the results of the dental X-rays and examines your child’s teeth and gums. If needed, they offer dental treatments for tooth decay, gum disease, or tooth damage. Examples include fillings, dental bonding, crowns, and orthodontics treatments.

How often should I schedule my child’s dental visits?

Schedule dental visits for special needs children every six months or more often if your child’s dentist recommends it because of an oral health problem. Call the Hendricks Dental Specialists office if your child has tooth damage, a toothache, symptoms of gum disease, or other bothersome dental problems. 

To schedule a dental appointment for special needs children, call Hendricks Dental Specialists or use the online booking tool today.