Special Needs Dentistry

Children and adults with special needs deserve quality dental care tailored to their unique circumstances. At Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces, with five offices in San Antonio and Helotes, Texas, the team of general and family dentists have extensive training in special needs dentistry, ensuring every patient receives comprehensive, personalized care. Call the nearest office or request an appointment online today to learn more.

What is special needs dentistry?

Special needs dentistry provides oral health care for individuals with special needs. These individuals may include those with physical, developmental, cognitive, or medical conditions that require tailored dental treatment to accommodate their unique needs. 

Special needs dentistry aims to address the challenges these individuals may face in maintaining good oral health and to ensure they receive appropriate dental care in a supportive and understanding environment. 

The dental team at Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces is trained to work with patients who may have diverse needs to promote oral health and overall well-being.

Who should consider special needs dentistry?

The Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces team may recommend special needs dentistry for patients with:

Dental phobias

If you have overwhelming dental fears, special needs dentistry provides a patient-focused approach to create a more comfortable environment. The team understands the unique concerns of patients with dental phobias and tailors care to address these anxieties, promoting a positive and stress-free experience.

Disabilities

Patients with disabilities can benefit from specialized attention to ensure the team meets their needs. Some of these disabilities may include physical, intellectual, developmental, neurological, sensory and sensory (visual, hearing impairments) disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, cognitive impairments, communication disorders, and psychiatric disabilities.

Severe gag reflexes

Special needs dentistry can encourage a more comfortable experience for patients with gag reflex sensitivity. The team employs strategies to minimize discomfort and successfully navigate treatments, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for patients with heightened gag reflex sensitivity.

Sleep apnea

The team understands the interconnected nature between oral health and sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Your dentist can help provide relief from snoring and improve your overall sleep quality with customized treatment options tailored to address your condition.

What does special needs dentistry include?

Special needs dentistry includes a variety of services aimed at meeting the unique needs of individuals with diverse conditions. These services may include:

• Specialized preventive care
• Customized treatments addressing sensory sensitivities 
• Educational support and guidance on adapted oral care routines 
• Resources for caregivers
• Compassionate environment with specialized communication technique
• Coordination with specialists, including medical professionals and relevant specialists 
• Modified oral health care
• Sedation dentistry

Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces provides personalized, compassionate care for patients with special needs. Call the nearest office or request an appointment online today to learn more.