Special Needs Dentist in Centerville, UT

Compassionate, Comfortable Care for All Patients.

Our pediatric dentists, Dr. Mark Nelson and Dr. Treagan White, and the Children’s Dentistry team are pleased to provide dental care for patients with special needs. Individuals with special needs often have unique requirements, which we are trained to cater to with quality care, skill, and compassion. We love our special needs patients and are dedicated to helping them enjoy a healthy smile and improved health. We invite you to contact Children’s Dentistry at 801-295-8322 to schedule an appointment with our special needs dentists and to learn more about special needs dentistry in Centerville, Utah.

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Top-Rated Dentist for Special Needs Child in Utah

At our pediatric dental practice in Centerville, we understand that every child is unique and deserves care tailored to their individual needs. Finding the right dentist for children with special needs can be particularly challenging. We are proud to be a leading special needs dentist in Centerville, UT, offering compassionate, specialized care for all children, including those with special needs.

Individuals with special needs are often at greater risk for tooth decay and dental disease. They often require specific services and additional care to maintain good oral health. Our Centerville pediatric dentists are committed to helping patients with special needs receive the quality care they need in a compassionate, comfortable environment where they can feel safe.

Special needs dentistry provides comprehensive oral care for children (or adults) with physical, developmental, mental, sensory, behavioral, cognitive, or emotional conditions. At Children’s Dentistry, our dedicated team recognizes the significance of tailoring dental treatments to ensure the comfort and well-being of every patient. It includes dental services for patients with conditions such as:

  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Developmental delays
  • Down syndrome
  • Multiple sclerosis

Our pediatric dentists and team work with both the patient and the primary caregiver to create an individualized treatment plan based on the patient’s needs and ability to tolerate treatment. We take the time to explain procedures, address the concerns of both the patient and the primary caregiver, and ensure that the patient feels comfortable. We will happily modify treatments to accommodate specific situations and needs.

Dr and young patient with "thumbs up"

Our Services for Patients with Special Needs

Pediatric Dentist for Autism

Children on the autism spectrum can sometimes find dental visits overwhelming due to sensory sensitivities and unfamiliar routines. As a trusted pediatric dentist for autism in Centerville:

  • We provide a quiet, calming environment.
  • Our staff is trained in using non-verbal communication techniques.
  • We introduce dental instruments gradually, ensuring the child is comfortable.
  • Customized appointment schedules can be made to accommodate the child’s best time of day.

Dentistry for Patients with Down Syndrome

Children with Down Syndrome often face unique dental challenges such as delayed tooth eruption, missing or extra teeth, and gum disease.

  • Gentle Cleanings: Regular dental cleanings tailored to their comfort level.
  • Orthodontic Evaluations: Assessing the alignment and spacing of teeth.
  • Specialized Home Care Guidance: Personalized oral hygiene advice to combat common challenges like gum disease.

Dentistry for Patients with Cerebral Palsy

Children with cerebral palsy may have difficulties with muscle control and coordination, making regular dental procedures more challenging.

  • Supportive Seating: Use of specialized dental chairs or supports for comfortable seating.
  • Mouth Props: Safe devices to assist in keeping the mouth open during procedures.
  • Sedation Options: Ensuring procedures can be performed without distress or discomfort.

Dentistry for Patients with Epilepsy

For children with epilepsy, the primary concern is managing potential seizures during dental treatments.

  • Seizure Management Protocols: Our special needs dentist is trained in handling seizures should one occur during a visit.
  • Medication Coordination: Collaboration with the child’s medical team to ensure safe dental care, considering their epilepsy medications.

Dentistry for Patients with ADHD

Children with ADHD may find it hard to sit still for extended periods or might become anxious quickly.

  • Shorter Appointments: Breaking up dental procedures into shorter sessions to accommodate attention spans.
  • Distraction Techniques: Using headphones, weighted blankets, or visual aids to help divert attention and alleviate anxiety.

Dentistry for Sensory Processing Disorders

Children with sensory processing disorders may be overly sensitive to lights, sounds, and touch.

  • Adjustable Lighting: Dimmable lights to ensure the child’s comfort.
  • Quiet Tools: Usage of quiet or noise-cancelling tools to minimize auditory distress.
  • Desensitization Techniques: Gradual introduction to tools and procedures to acclimatize the child.

Sedation Dentistry

For children who experience severe anxiety or those who might find it challenging to sit through a dental procedure, sedation dentistry can be an excellent option. Our sedation methods are safe and are always administered under the strict supervision of trained professionals.

Preventive Care

Early intervention and regular dental check-ups are essential, especially for children with special needs who might be at a higher risk for dental issues. Our preventive services include cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, and education on proper home care tailored to the child’s needs.

Restorative Dentistry

From fillings to pediatric crowns, we offer a range of restorative services, ensuring that your child’s dental health is restored with minimal discomfort.

Commitment to Exceptional Care

We believe in fostering a relationship of trust with both the child and the parents. Our staff is always available to address any concerns, provide resources, or help in any way possible.

Preparing for Your Child’s Visit

To make the visit seamless:

  1. Prior Consultation: Before your child’s first visit, a consultation can help us understand your child’s specific needs.
  2. Flexible Scheduling: We understand that some children might have specific timings when they feel most comfortable. We’re flexible in scheduling appointments to cater to these needs.
  3. Familiarization Visits: We offer short visits before the appointment to familiarize your child with our clinic, the staff, and the dental instruments to ease anxiety.

Schedule an Appointment with a Leading Special Needs Dentist in Centerville, UT

Your child’s oral health and comfort are our top priorities. Our Centerville Children’s Dentistry practice promises unparalleled care if you’re looking for a dentist for a special needs child.

If you are the primary caregiver for an adult or child with special needs, we invite you to speak with us about options for their personalized dental care. Please call our office at 801-295-8322 to learn more about special needs dentistry and to make an appointment with our pediatric dentists.

Healthy Smiles Start Here!

Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions about your child’s first visit or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nelson, Dr. White, or Dr. Hiné.