Dental Management For Children With Special Needs

Daily life with a special-needs child presents many joys and unique challenges, one of which is dental care management.   Dr Cara and her team of highly trained, understanding professionals want you to know that we welcome everything your child is. We view it as a privilege that you have chosen us to be your dental health care partner. 

We recognize that dental care can be a challenge.  Our goal is warmly welcome, listen, educate and assist you in all aspects of maintaining excellent oral health for your child.  Whether your child has Down Syndrome, Autism or another condition we are here to be your partner.

In cases where children require more assistance with treatment Dr. Cara offers both office and hospital based general anesthesia.    

Common dental concerns in children with special needs:

• How their teeth and oral structures will grow.
• How the calcium is laid down in the tooth's enamel (the tooth's top layer) as the teeth grow
• How much spit (saliva) your child makes in their mouth: saliva helps clear food and protects teeth.
• How often and what your child is able to eat: soft foods and liquids do not give the teeth, gums, and muscles of the mouth the stimulation that they need.  Children who use G-tubes are still at risk for cavities and may be more likely to build up tartar on their teeth, making it important to keep their teeth and gums cleaned and cared for.
• GERD(gastro-esophageal reflux disease):  GERD can cause your child’s mouth to be acidic which can wear down the teeth. Your dentist may prescribe pastes to help prevent teeth damage from the acid.
• Holding food in the mouth:  some children will hold food in their mouth or cheeks much longer than usual (this is called food pouching). This creates a good place for bacteria that cause cavities to grow.
• Grinding (bruxism):  your child may grind or gnash their teeth while sleeping or during the day. Over time, grinding can damage teeth. This is common and most children outgrow the habit.  Treatments are available if it becomes a problem.
• Bad breath:  some digestive problems, chronic sinusitis, or diabetes may cause bad breath. This may also be the effect of certain medications.
• Dry mouth:  may be a result of your child’s condition or from medication. This can affect nutrition and can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and mouth infections. It is important to check with your dentist and your child’s doctor for treatment ideas.
• Delay in first teeth coming in:  This is common in children with Down syndrome.
• Medicine can affect teeth and gums: liquid syrups and medicines with sugar can cause cavities. Other medicines can cause dry mouth and reduce how much saliva (spit) your child makes.  These may include: antihistamines, antidepressants, anti-GERD medicine, sedatives, and barbiturates.  Some seizure medicines may cause enlarged gums, causing them to bleed.  Help reduce the impact of medicine by rinsing or spraying your child's mouth with water after each dose.