Special Needs Dentistry: Everyone Deserves a Healthy Smile!

The Americans with Disabilities Act defines disability as a “physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.” (Specific examples of major life activities addressed by the ADA include functions such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing and learning.) 

Disabilities may be congenital (present from birth) or develop later in life. If your child is living with a disability, you know how deeply important access to quality, compassionate medical care is, and that includes oral healthcare. At Whalen Dentistry, we want to help every person we treat develop and maintain a healthy, happy smile, and we believe being inclusive of children with special needs is an essential part of this mission. 

There is much to be considered when customizing care for individuals with special needs, from ramps, entryways, office furniture, space, and atmosphere, to the technology we use and the amount of time scheduled for appointments. Whalen Dentistry considers all of it and more to provide quality and compassionate care for kids with special needs. Tailored treatment plans may include sedation and anesthesia, which can really improve dental experiences for our patients with special needs as well as those with dental fears and phobias.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Whalen Dentistry with your questions, concerns, or comments, or just to schedule an appointment to come in and see us!

 

The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.