If your loved one is a special needs patient, then you’re probably aware of how many health conditions you must regularly safeguard them from—and with everything that you have to think about, dental care may be the least of your concerns! However, unlike many of the other complications faced by patients with special needs, several oral health issues are entirely preventable with proper dental health care. And luckily, dental care for patients with special needs is often made easy thanks to dental sedation! Here’s more about how this works.
Special Needs Patients Need Specialized Dental Care
Traditional treatment plans for dental care may or may not apply to individuals with special needs; some are able to undergo routine dental care with little to no difficulty, while others might have physical limitations due to trauma, hereditary issues or medical complications. It’s also worth noting that many of these conditions can exacerbate dental-related anxiety, especially in younger special needs patients, further necessitating the need for specialized care.
Fortunately, dental professionals are equipped to handle any type of special needs patients and are well aware of the differences they face during treatment! This is why sedation dentistry is often utilized; when sedated, the patient is completely relaxed and does not feel any discomfort, making it easier to perform dental and oral care.
Types of Dental Sedation for Special Needs Patients
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is perhaps the most common choice among sedation dentistry options, and it’s undeniably useful when it comes to assisting patients with special needs and of all ages! It’s administered through a nasal mask and patients feel the calm and relaxing effects within mere moments; and though they’ll feel pretty great, they won’t laugh maniacally as the nickname of the anesthetic implies.
Once the treatment has been completed, the mask is removed, and patients quickly feel back to normal. It’s worth noting that before administering nitrous oxide, any patient’s medical health and history will be reviewed to ensure that they’re an eligible candidate—however, the gas itself is colorless, odorless, and considered extremely safe!
Special needs patients often have many doctor visits and medical checkups throughout their lifetime, so it’s understandable for them to feel anxiety, fear, or stress about something like a dental checkup. Luckily, dental sedation can easily ensure that sitting in their dentist’s chair is among the most pleasant of these visits!
About the Practice
Here at Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re passionate about helping younger smiles look and feel their absolute best! Our team is thrilled to offer a wide range of pediatric services to families in the New Britain, CT area. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit for your little one, don’t hesitate to contact the practice online or over the phone for assistance: (860) 224-2419.