Offering sedation dentistry for patients with special needs fits well into our general practice philosophy: that it’s important to make sure each of our patients receives the care he or she needs, safely and comfortably.
Tooth decay, gum infection and other dental issues don’t discriminate, and people who are dealing with a developmental disability are just as prone to these problems as anyone else. In fact, difficulty grasping the importance of regular brushing and flossing can make some special needs patients even more vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. Having a preventive dental plan in place makes such a difference — and a healthy smile contributes to overall well-being. Providing your loved one with consistent preventive dentistry is crucial. Twice-annual checkups and cleanings with a dentist who’s equipped to care for patients with special needs will contribute to healthy teeth and a happy smile for years to come.
Many times, the biggest barrier to helping someone with a developmental disability maintain a healthy smile is simply getting them to relax in the dental chair. Whether the difficulty is caused by a fear of the unknown or physical limitations that make sitting still for long periods of time impossible, we’re prepared to help with options in sedation dentistry.
Some examples of cases requiring special dental care and sedation include the following:
Cerebral palsy
Alzheimer’s disease
Parkinson’s disease
Down’s syndrome
Autism spectrum disorders
How can sedation help?
For many patients with special needs, undergoing dental treatment can be difficult or impossible for a wide range of medical, mental, physical or psychological reasons.
Sedation or anesthesia allows many of these patients to undergo necessary dental care they might otherwise not be able to tolerate.
We most commonly use dental sedation for patients with special needs for the following reasons:
Lack of cooperation
Multiple morbidities (co-occurring diseases)
Pediatric autism
Cognitive impairments
How does the sedation process work?
Patients with severe restrictions or multiple medical problems will be evaluated by Dr. Jana Sabo and Epione Dental Anesthesiology prior to undergoing treatment with anesthesia.
Whatever the type of sedation ultimately selected for the patient, he or she will be monitored carefully throughout the procedure by Dr. Jana Sabo and Epione Dental Anesthesiology.
We ask that all patients who are undergoing sedation dentistry of any kind are escorted to and from the appointment by a friend, family member or guardian, as most types of sedation take some time to wear off.
The comfort and safety of our patients with special needs is a priority to us.
Please contact Dr. Jana Sabo at 866.736.6256 for additional information regarding dental sedation and anesthesia at Epione Dental Anesthesiology