Planning
a Dental Visit for My Child with Special Needs

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing children in Phoenix and the surrounding communities with the highest quality dental care. We are especially proud to offer quality special needs dental services and are always ready to make accommodations to ensure your little one feels comfortable and safe during treatment. We are here for you and your child every step of the way!

Common Dental Concerns of Children with Special Needs

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children with special healthcare needs have physical, developmental, sensory, behavioral, mental, or emotional concerns that require intervention, medical management, or specialized services. 

Children with special healthcare needs are often at an elevated risk of oral health problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and trauma. They may also suffer from poor dental health because of difficulty brushing or flossing effectively or because of certain medications or dietary restrictions. That is why it is important to keep up with routine dental exams and cleanings. 

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentistry Practice for Special Needs Dental Care?

Pediatric dentists go through extensive training beyond dental school. One of the focuses of their specialized education is caring for children with special needs. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are fully prepared and equipped to provide dental care services for children with special smiles and work tirelessly to ensure their time with us is positive and free of stress. 

At Jet Set Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we work closely with you to ensure your child’s time with us is as comfortable as possible. We are happy to make any needed accommodations and offer sedation dentistry options to help your child feel relaxed during treatment. Whatever your child’s needs are, our dedicated team will do everything we can to provide your child with the best possible experience. 

Planning Your Child’s Dental Visit

Here are some tips for preparing for your child’s dental to help set the stage for a positive dental visit:

• Pay us a visit: It is often helpful to stop by for a brief visit ahead of time to get your child familiar with our warm staff and comfortable space.  
• Let us know about accommodations: Let us know if your child needs any accommodations or if there is anything we need to know to help us provide the best possible experience. 
• Stay positive: Your child will pick up on any fear or negative emotions, so it is important to stay positive and upbeat before and during your appointment. 
• Play pretend: Children love role play, so you may want to take turns playing “dentist” and caring for a favorite doll, superhero, or stuffed animal’s teeth. 
• Read books: There are numerous books about visiting the dentist available online or at your local bookstore – snuggle with your little one with a good book to build excitement about the upcoming appointment.
• Talk to your child: Talk to your child about the upcoming visit and what to expect – make sure you portray the dentist as a warm and happy person who will take good care of those pearly whites. 

Special Needs Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our compassionate team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry welcome you and your family to our practice. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to make your child’s time with us as happy and positive as possible. We invite you to call us at 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today.

How
Can My Pediatric Dentist Accommodate My Child with Special Needs?

Our valued young patients with special needs often have unique oral health concerns, and we at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry are here to help. Our team is fully equipped to offer outstanding special needs services and has the training and experience to provide the highest quality of dental care you and your child can trust.

What Are Common Dental Concerns of Children with Special Needs?

All children need routine dental care for long-term healthy smiles. However, children with special needs are often at a higher risk of developing dental problems, including tooth decay, cavities, periodontal (gum) disease, and oral trauma. They often need medications and have dietary restrictions that are detrimental to their oral health. Moreover, brushing and flossing may pose a challenge.

Your trusted team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry encourages you to maintain your child’s regular dental exams and cleanings. We will monitor your child’s oral health and recommend any preventive procedures necessary to lower the risk of developing dental disease. We’ll also identify and treat any conditions as they arise to prevent the need for involved procedures down the road.

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist for Your Special Child’s Care?

Pediatric dentists receive extensive training beyond dental school. Their specialist education includes a focus on providing outstanding care for children with special needs and also encompasses behavior management.

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we strive to ensure your child is happy and comfortable at our office. Our team is aware of what accommodations are needed to provide your child with the best possible care. Moreover, our office is physically accessible, based on the American Dental Association and OSHA recommendations.

How We Help Children with Special Needs Relax

Your trusted team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry works closely with our patients with special needs and their families to determine the best options for delivering safe and stress-free dental care. If your child is anxious or finds it challenging to sit still in the dentist’s chair, we may recommend sedation dentistry options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), to ensure they have a safe and positive experience at our office.

When it comes to children with extreme anxiety or sensory challenges, or those in need of extensive dental treatment, we may recommend general anesthesia to provide the best experience for our young patients and their parents. Our team will work with you to determine the best way to help your child have comfortable and relaxed dental care.

What Should You Expect During Your Child’s Dental Visits?

We will first review your child’s medical history, unique needs, and specific physical or behavioral concerns. We will conduct a thorough evaluation of every aspect of your child’s oral health and may recommend any preventive or restorative treatments required to maintain a healthy smile.

Our Jet Set Smiles team will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques and answer your questions during your visit. Our goal is to minimize the risks of developing dental disease for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Gentle Special Needs Dentistry in Phoenix, AZ

Contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our gentle special needs dentistry services. Our team is committed to providing our young patients with the highest level of dental care. Call us and schedule your appointment today!