Caring for the oral health of children with special needs presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to the routine of brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Due to emotional, behavioral, physical, or intellectual disabilities, these children may encounter difficulties in remembering or executing these tasks independently. Additional assistance may be necessary to ensure their teeth are properly cleaned. Explore four helpful tips for maintaining the oral health of children with special needs through specialized dentistry.
Tip #1. Establish a Routine
Establishing a consistent routine is often comforting for many children with special needs. Integrating proper oral care into their daily schedule is crucial. Skipping brushing and flossing even once might lead to resistance in the future. Prioritize their oral hygiene routine every morning and night to avoid potential challenges. Consider doing it together to set a positive example and promote healthy habits.
Tip #2. Get Creative
While adults may go through their oral hygiene routines on autopilot, caregivers of special needs children are urged by the National Institutes of Health to infuse creativity and make daily oral hygiene an enjoyable experience. Consider purchasing themed toothbrushes featuring their favorite characters to pique their curiosity. Additionally, play songs for them to listen to or even dance to while they engage in the teeth-cleaning process.
Tip #3. Implement a Better Diet
Ensuring your child maintains regular dental visits and adopts good oral care habits at home is crucial for safeguarding their smile. Equally important is their diet—brush their teeth after meals and just before bedtime to remove plaque, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Restrict the intake of soda, candy, and sugary foods and drinks. Encourage the consumption of tooth-friendly foods like lean meat, fish, fresh fruits, vegetables, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. Drinking plenty of water is also beneficial.
#4. Find an Experienced Dentist
Delaying the initial dental visit for young children is a common practice among parents to prevent triggering anxiety. However, regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. These visits allow the dentist to identify and address minor issues before they escalate.
To ensure a smooth experience for both you and your child, seek a dentist with expertise in handling special needs children. This way, your child can receive high-quality, comfortable, and effective dental care tailored to their unique requirements.
From the moment your child’s first tooth appears, they become susceptible to dental issues. Prioritize finding a reputable dentist and establish a robust oral hygiene routine to ensure their pearly whites remain in excellent condition, maintaining a bright and healthy smile.
About the Practice
For the well-being of young patients in the Naperville region, G&G Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics delivers trusted and exceptional care. With extensive experience in nurturing growing smiles, they specialize in creating a comfortable and secure environment for little ones with special needs during their treatment. To schedule an appointment or obtain more information on caring for your special needs child’s teeth at home, contact the office of G&G Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics at (630) 778-9500 or visit their website.
