What Is Special Needs Dentistry?
Special needs dentistry focuses on delivering personalized oral care to patients with diverse needs.
Beyond a compassionate, understanding approach, this specialized area:
- Recognizes that some patients may face challenges in maintaining dental health due to physical, emotional or sensory factors.
- Ensures access to essential dental services, including routine cleanings, surgical treatments and at-home preventive care.
- Focuses on creating a calm, supportive environment to minimize stress and overstimulation.
- Involves parents and caregivers in establishing effective at-home oral health routines.
Our team is dedicated to accommodating all patient needs with care and sensitivity.
Our Unique Approach
Are you searching for a dental office that accommodates special needs in Connecticut? Smile Dental Center is proud to welcome patients with a disability.
We Adapt to Your Needs
Our dentists and staff are committed to supporting patients with a range of needs, including autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, Down syndrome, multiple sclerosis and other behavioral, physical, cognitive and mental health concerns.
In addition to in-office care and accommodations, we:
- Develop individualized care plans based on each patient’s needs
- Can adapt dental treatments to ensure patient comfort and safety
- Understand that certain health conditions, medications, diets and sensory sensitivities may affect oral health and take these factors into account.
We Prepare for Your Visit
Dental visits can be challenging for some patients and we strive to create a welcoming, low-stress experience.
Let us know about any specific needs, preferences or accommodations in advance so we can best prepare for your visit.
At-Home Dental Care
Dental care should go beyond the office to keep cavities, gingivitis and more serious oral health concerns at bay. For patients with unique needs, we offer recommendations to help make home care more manageable, including:
- Techniques for brushing and flossing, adapted to individual abilities.
- Toothbrush and toothpaste recommendations for dexterity, strength or sensory challenges.
- Holistic assessments of diet, medications and other factors impacting oral health, with tailored suggestions to preserve tooth health.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
To help us provide the best patient care possible, please let us know about:
- Current medications, including oral treatments and inhalers
- Any specific accommodations or preferences to improve comfort
- Familiar routines or techniques that help you or a loved one feel at ease
Having issues following a recent visit? Don’t wait. We see emergencies same day!