Understanding the Sensory Challenges
At Sierk Children’s Dentistry, we pay close attention to children with special needs and take measures to accommodate them. We can start with a slow introduction to the team and environment. We can also add things like noise-cancelling headphones, and we tend to use quieter dental instruments with our little ones.
Our team also encourages parental input and communication. In other words, let us know how we can make your child feel more relaxed and comfortable in our dental office.
Common Sensory Triggers in a Dental Office
Sensory challenges in a dental office may include specific:
- Sights: Bright overhead lighting
- Sounds: Drills, suction, murmurs
- Smells: Anesthesia, disinfectant
The Challenge of Predictability
When you find a pediatric dentist in Highlands Ranch or Castle Pines who accommodates special needs, it is best to stick with that dentist for a predictable and accommodating experience for your child at every dental visit.
A pediatric dentist who cares for children with special needs can also reassess their needs as they grow or as their triggers change.
We can book your child into the dental office during quieter times of the day, and we’re happy to offer sedation dentistry options as needed.
Preparation Strategies Before Leaving Home
- Creating a Social Story or Visual Schedule: Social stories mean sharing scenarios with your child (in first person) about what it will be like in the dental office. Social stories use visual tools and images to help your child become familiar with the dental setting.
- Practice at Home (Desensitization): Show them non-threatening images of dental tools or talk to them about their teeth. You can incorporate social stories and visual schedules into desensitization.
- Sensory Comfort Tools to Bring: If your child has a special blanket, fidget spinner, or another home comfort item, don’t hesitate to bring it to their appointment.
The Day of the Dental Appointment
On the day of your child’s appointment, you can expect patience and compassion. Our team is well-trained and always takes the necessary measures to help your child thrive in their dental health.
Essential Communication with the Dental Team
By the day of your child’s dental appointment, we will have already discussed the accommodations with you and will understand their needs. However, if you think of anything to add to our understanding, never hesitate to call our team.
Visual & Verbal Cueing During the Exam
If your child is able, we can discuss a system of verbal or visual cues they can use to alert the dentist if they feel uncomfortable or unsure. For example, they can raise their hand if they need a few minutes to adjust or rest.
Sensory Adjustments We Can Make at the Office: Sierk's Commitment
We’re always pleased to consider the lighting, sounds, and comforts necessary to ensure your child has a successful dental visit.
We consider:
- Scheduling visits during quieter times
- Scheduling visits during hours when your child is most at ease
- Using noise-cancelling headphones
- Using sedation dentistry
Specialized Pediatric Dentistry Approaches
We understand differently abled children and always customize their care to meet their needs.
Sedation Dentistry Options for Special Needs Patients
We offer nitrous oxide, in-office, and hospital-based general anesthesia. Additionally, we have a trained anesthesiologist at our dental practice and always take a thorough health history before moving forward with sedation.
Throughout treatment, we constantly monitor your child’s vitals and take every precaution.
The Value of Specialized Training in Special Needs Dental Care
When you find a team specially trained (or with experience) in special needs dentistry, you can count on accommodations that consider their needs and abilities as well as special measures to ensure their comfort and well-being.
When it comes to children with special needs, including but not limited to autism, it is always best to choose skill and experience to ensure their comfort and oral health success.
Ongoing Oral Health and Maintenance
Adapting Oral Hygiene at Home
We understand that home care can be challenging for some children with special needs. After we’ve assessed your child and learned more about them, we can offer essential home care tips.
Of course, it’s best to brush and floss their teeth at least twice daily and visit our dental office every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings. However, to accommodate your child, the dentist may discuss a different schedule or timeframe for in-office treatment.
Partnering with Your Dental Home
We are partners in your child’s dental health, which means we want to hear from you when you have questions or need practical advice. Likewise, we’ll always share dental health findings with you and make appropriate recommendations for your child’s care.
These combined efforts go a long way toward your child’s future dental health.
Contact Us for Special Needs Dentistry in Highlands Ranch or Castle Pines
We want to help ensure that all children receive the dental care they need. To learn more about our treatments and services, including special needs dentistry, or to schedule an appointment for your child, call us today at (303) 865-4066.
We’re pleased to work with most insurance plans, including Medicaid, and our dental office accepts financing through CareCredit and LendingClub.