Special Needs Patients

Everyone’s child deserves dental care from a dentist that’s caring, understanding, and patient. That’s why Dr. Sam Bullard are some of the best pediatric dentists for special needs patients. As parents themselves, they’re committed to treating every patient and family with respect.

Approximately 20 percent of the population lives with some form of a disability, including physical and developmental, and intellectual. These disabilities can make tasks like brushing your teeth difficult. That’s why it’s so important special needs patients see a dentist. Regular dental visits can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and even issues like heart disease down the line.

How does special needs dentistry work?

Dr. Bullard tailors his approach to the needs of the patient. Oftentimes this means working at a slower pace or calming the patient who might have sensitivities to noises and lights. It also means understanding how to treat patients who suffer from overall anxiety that comes from being in a new place.

Our doctors also take an extensive patient history so they understand how to treat your child and any conflicts that might occur. This allows them to tailor the treatment plan to your child’s needs.

Special needs patients often require physical accommodations. At Smiling Kids Pediatric Dentistry we have the expertise and skills necessary to make sure your child is well accommodated. Whether they use a wheelchair, walker, or another device, we will make sure they’re safely seated in the dental chair, secure, and comfortable so we can take care of their oral care.

What type of work do dentists for special needs do?

Dentists who work with special needs children provide the same care they provide for all their patients, just modified to meet their needs. This includes teeth cleanings, fillings, fluoride treatment, extractions, and more.

What to Look for in a Dentist for Special Needs Patients

We recommend parents with special needs children take a fair amount of time to understand the options available to them. Give the office a call and/or drop into the dentist’s office you’re interested in and see if you can chat with the staff about how they handle special needs patients and the dentist’s experience with special needs patients. Dropping in at random also gives you the ability to check out the office.

See if you can arrange a meeting with the dentist prior to scheduling your first appointment. It’s crucial that you feel comfortable with the dentist and auxiliary staff, and that your child does as well.

If you’re a parent looking for a dentist for your special needs child, contact Smiling Kids Pediatric Dentistry. Our doctors truly take joy in the work that they do, and promise to treat every patient with care and patience. They bring extensive experience in special needs dentistry and will provide your child with the care they deserve.