How to Avoid Dental Problems in Patients with Special Needs

Special Needs Dental Care in Orange County

Providing dental care for patients with special needs can be challenging in traditional dental offices. Bright lights, unfamiliar staff, or even noises from office equipment can trigger anxiety or fear, making it difficult for your loved one to receive the care they need. At In Motion Dentists, we believe everyone deserves compassionate, thorough dental care. That’s why Dr. Wade Banner brings his expertise directly to special needs patients in the comfort of their own homes throughout Orange County.

Daily Oral Hygiene Tips for Special Needs Patients

Even if it’s not yet time for a routine check-up or biannual cleaning, you can take steps at home to support your loved one’s oral health:

1. Maintain a consistent routine – Brush twice daily, floss once daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash when possible. Choose a time when your loved one is alert and rested. Make it a stable, predictable routine, and praise their efforts.
2. Adapt tools to their needs – Use a toothbrush with a small to medium head and soft to medium bristles. Special handgrips, electric toothbrushes, or other adaptive devices can help those with mobility challenges.
3. Use gentle communication – If your loved one cannot perform oral hygiene independently, guide them calmly and positively through the process, explaining each step as you go.

Simplifying Dental Visits with Mobile Dentistry

Traveling to a dental office can be stressful for special needs patients, especially when assistive devices or medical equipment are required. Mobile dentistry brings care directly to your loved one, eliminating the challenges of travel. When scheduling an in-home visit with Dr. Banner, be sure to share all relevant:

• Medical conditions and physical limitations
• Emotional or behavioral considerations
• Current medications

This allows Dr. Banner to provide the most effective and safe special needs dental care possible.

Sedation Dentistry for Comfort

For patients with dental anxiety or fear of strangers, sedation dentistry can make routine procedures like cleanings more comfortable. Dr. Banner is trained in safely administering sedation dentistry in-home, taking into account all medical conditions and medications to ensure your loved one’s safety and emotional well-being.

Contact Our Special Needs Dental Care Team

If you have questions about providing proper dental care for your loved one with special needs, or if you’d like to schedule an in-home appointment in Orange County, our team is here to help.

Call In Motion Dentists today at (626) 594-0374 to speak with our special needs dental care experts.

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