If your child has a mental, behavioral, or physical disability, implementing a solid oral hygiene routine can be difficult. As a result, children with special needs are often more vulnerable to dental concerns that can take a serious toll on both the look and function of their smile. Considering the statistics of tooth decay in America are already staggering (over 90% have had at least one cavity by their 21st birthday), it’s easy to see why special needs dentistry is so important. To learn more, read on!
The Most Prevalent Oral Health Issues for Children with Special Needs
From cavities to misalignment, oral health issues are prevalent among children and adults alike. With that being said, there are a few dental problems that children with special needs are particularly vulnerable to. Depending on their disability, some things to look out for include delays in tooth eruption, malformed or extra teeth, crowding, gum disease, teeth grinding, and dry mouth. Don’t worry – these are all oral health problems their dentist can keep an eye on at their six-month appointments.
How to Keep Their Smile Healthy
Proper prevention is essential when it comes to your child’s oral health. Here are a few best practices to keep in mind:
- Keep their mouth clean – Before their first tooth has even erupted, you should begin wiping down their gums with a clean, damp washcloth after each meal. Once their teeth have broken through the gumline, begin to clean them with an appropriately sized, soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Keep their dentist in the loop – Be sure to touch base with their dentist about when to incorporate toothpaste and floss. If you run into any obstacles, let them know! They can provide you with tips and work with you to find a system that suits your child.
- Find a toothpaste flavor that works – If your child is particularly sensitive to a certain flavor, like mint, find an alternative that is more palatable.
- Provide them with nutrient-dense foods – It’s no secret that sugary foods, like candy, can eat away at the enamel on your child’s teeth. That’s why sticking to well-balanced, nutrient-dense meals is so important!
- Have them wear a custom nightguard – Chronic teeth grinding can leave your child’s teeth fragile, cracked, and worn down. To avoid that, provide them with a custom-made nightguard that will protect their smile.
- Prioritize their biannual checkups and cleanings – Remember, their dentist won’t just clean the hard-to-reach areas of your child’s mouth; they will also spot dental problems, like cavities, in the early stages, screen for oral cancer, and monitor their jaw development.
Your child’s teeth don’t just complete their smile; they help them chew properly and enunciate clearly. So, it’s easy to see why caring for them properly is so important. Remember, if you need any assistance implementing an oral hygiene routine that works, you have an ally: their dentist!
About the Practice
Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is home to a highly-trained pediatric dentist, Dr. Mina Kalali, a skilled orthodontist, Dr. Sam Alkhoury, and a handful of other exceptional smile-enthusiasts. At our office, we are proud to serve infants, teens, and everyone in between. In addition to having extensive training and genuine compassion, we offer safe dental sedation. That way, your child gets the essential dental care they deserve without the stress and discomfort. If you’re interested in learning more about special needs dentistry, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at 603-880-5002.