{"id":39,"date":"2021-09-30T14:15:00","date_gmt":"2021-09-30T14:15:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kidsdentistry.com\/blog\/?p=39"},"modified":"2021-10-08T14:15:26","modified_gmt":"2021-10-08T14:15:26","slug":"four-tips-for-special-needs-dentistry-children-with-autism","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kidsdentistry.com\/blog\/2021\/09\/30\/four-tips-for-special-needs-dentistry-children-with-autism\/","title":{"rendered":"Here\u2019s How You Can Help Your Child With Autism Feel Comfortable at the Dentist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Closeup<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

An unfamiliar environment can be overwhelming for a child with Autism. Now throw in the strange sounds, unfamiliar tastes, bright lights, and occasional discomfort that accompanies going to the dentist, and the situation becomes downright traumatic. However, as a parent, you know just how important routine checkups and cleanings are. So, you\u2019re in a bit of a predicament. The good news is that there are a few tips for special needs dentistry<\/a> you can implement to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible for you and your little one. Keep reading to learn what they are!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

#1. Select a Special Needs Dentist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although a quick Google search can provide you with a list of hundreds of dentists close by, not all of them will be comfortable treating kids on the autism spectrum. Therefore, it\u2019s a good idea to do some research on dental practices in your area that have the experience (and genuine passion for!) treating patients with all different needs. Fortunately, this information is typically readily available on their website. Of course, you can always ask around for recommendations or give the practice a call as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

#2. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When you find a special needs dentist you can trust, don\u2019t hesitate to ask about special accommodations for your child. Is there an area you can wait in, free from the distractions and loud noises associated with typical waiting rooms? Are you allowed to stay in the treatment room with your child during the appointment, ensuring they feel as comfortable as possible? Answers to questions like these will help you and your little one prepare accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

#3. Play \u201cGoing to the Dentist\u201d With Your Child<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sitting in a reclined chair, being surrounded by unfamiliar dental tools, and saying \u201cahhh\u2026\u201d are most likely not<\/em> a part of your child\u2019s daily routine. So, help them \u201ctest drive\u201d the experience by playing \u201cgoing to the dentist\u201d with them before the appointment. You can get some fake dental tools, set up a mock dental office, and ask them questions their dentist will. Afterward, let them do the same to you or their toys!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

#4. Bring Along Items That Bring Comfort to Your Child<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can prepare and prepare, but you can\u2019t predict how your child is going to feel\/respond when their appointment comes. Therefore, it\u2019s a good idea to bring along some comfort-based items to their visit. This could be their favorite toy, a soft blanket, or even an iPad. That way, you can hopefully ease any nerves that arise quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You know how important your child\u2019s bi-yearly checkups and cleanings are, but that doesn\u2019t make the process of attending those appointments any easier. Fortunately, with the above best practices in place, you can set you and your child up for a successful visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About the Author<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Homer Sedighi<\/a> is a board-certified pediatric dentist who has the extensive education, advanced training, and exceptional skill needed to maintain and restore growing smiles. Outside the office, he is a Faculty Member of St. Louis Children\u2019s Hospital and Mercy Children\u2019s Hospital, and he has treated patients who are on the autism spectrum, who have Down Syndrome, and who have developmental disabilities. As a result, he is the expert to trust with your child\u2019s dental needs. To learn more about special needs dentistry or to schedule an appointment, visit his website<\/a> or give him a call at 636-777-7777<\/strong>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

An unfamiliar environment can be overwhelming for a child with Autism. Now throw in the strange sounds, unfamiliar tastes, bright lights, and occasional discomfort that accompanies going to the dentist, and the situation becomes downright traumatic. However, as a parent, you know just how important routine checkups and cleanings are. So, you\u2019re in a bit […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\nHelp Your Child With Autism Feel Comfortable at the Dentist l Dr. Sedighi<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Making your child with Autism feel comfortable at the dentist is crucial. 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