Finding a dentist for your family can be challenging; and if your child is on the autism spectrum, it may feel impossible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Children on the spectrum may have different experiences at the dentist than other children. There are new things to hear, see, and touch that can easily create a sensory overload.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Some children will find these things fascinating, but many children with autism spectrum disorder will get confused and scared. And if your child has an additional medical condition<\/a> that requires specialized care, you need a dentist who knows how to help them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Every child deserves regular dental checkups from a qualified dentist<\/a>, preferably one with pediatric experience. Parents caring for a child with autism spectrum disorder should understand a few key points when choosing the best dentist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can alleviate your child’s fears<\/a> by preparing them at home before your first visit. Use stories and pictures to help your child understand what will happen at their upcoming appointment. Role play by having your child sit in a pretend dentist’s<\/a> chair while you inspect their teeth using a mirror.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Create a list of things that could make your child more comfortable at their first appointment. They could bring a security item, such as a favorite toy or a small blanket. The X-ray shield may act as a weighted blanket for some patients, creating a sense of comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While the prep work before the appointment is crucial to a successful visit, that’s only half of the battle. Before scheduling an appointment, it’s critical to do some research to find the best dentist for your child. But what do you look for, and what should you ask?<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not all dentists have experience working with children with special needs to create a safe space<\/a> for them. Parents must understand a few essential qualities to look for when finding the best dentist for child on the spectrum. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A pediatric dentist has additional education and training in working with children. Their training includes managing the treatment of children with special needs. Choosing a dentist who specializes in caring for children is essential to ensuring your child gets the care they need.<\/p>\n\n\n\nPracticing at Home <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Finding the Best Dentist for A Child on the Spectrum <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Find a pediatric dental specialist.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Ask about their experience working with special needs children. <\/h3>\n\n\n\n