A Complete Guide on Dental Care for Children with Special Needs

Dental Care at Home

Developing good oral hygiene habits at home is one of the best ways for your child to have a healthy mouth. Instilling these habits at an early age can help them as they get older and will also help them have easier dental appointments.

Brushing & Flossing

Brushing and flossing are essential to anybody’s dental care routine. Children with special needs may be sensitive to the toothbrush bristles and flossing movements which can make it difficult to make brushing and flossing a habit.

If your child is struggling with brushing their teeth, try experimenting with different kinds of toothbrushes until you find one that works best for them. Some brushes are made with silicon or softer bristles. Sometimes, a child may benefit from an electric toothbrush with soft vibrations. It’s all about finding a toothbrush that they can use on a day to day basis. Don’t give up on making brushing and flossing an everyday activity as it is the best way to prevent dental issues.

Eating a healthy diet

Having a diet rich in vitamins and minerals is also important when it comes to having a healthy mouth. Fruits, vegetables, grains, and some dairy carry the nutrients that one needs to have strong teeth and gums.

Children with special needs may have limited diets and strong likes and dislikes when it comes to food and drink. Work together with your child in trying new foods and discover new foods that they love. It can be a fun way for you and your child to experiment with food and find ones that work best.

One thing to note while discovering a diet that works for your child is that it’s important to limit sugary foods and drinks as well as acidic foods. In large quantities, foods like this can break down the enamel and make your child more susceptible to cavities and tooth decay.

Dental care will always be important to your child’s overall health, so try not to let any difficulties keep you from finding the best way for your child to receive care. Regular dental visits and strong oral hygiene habits are the best way for your child to have good dental health. There are many ways to prepare for positive dental visits and establish a dental care routine at home, it’s all about finding what works best for you and your child.

Dr. Greg Grillo, was born and raised in the Okanogan Valley in Washington state. He spent eight years at the University of Washington and received a bachelor’s degree with honors before attending the School of Dentistry on the same campus.Dr. Grillo’s more than two decades of expertise, combined with his passion for dental marketing and knowledge of dental software, makes him an invaluable asset to the Emergency Dentists USA team.

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This post originally appeared on our May/June 2019 Magazine