What is Special Needs Dentistry?

At Pediatric Dentistry of San Marcos, we believe that all children deserve quality dental care. We are proud to that our doctors are some of the most highly trained in Special Needs Dentistry, and in fact, teach other dentists in the latest Special Needs dental care techniques at Rady Children’s Hospital. We are pleased to provide special needs dental services and are happy to make accommodations to ensure your child’s dental needs are met in a the most comfortable and happy environment possible.

The Unique Oral Health Concerns of Children with Special Needs

Children with special needs are often at a higher risk of dental disease due to genetic conditions that can cause malformed enamel, tooth eruption delays, and crowding, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health complications. Other factors that increase the risk of dental problems include developmental defects, teeth grinding and clenching, dry mouth, medications containing sugar, and physical challenges that interfere with proper brushing and flossing. Additionally, many patients with cardiac defects, or immunocompromised health are especially vulnerable to the risks from dental cavities or gum disease.

Regardless of your child’s unique needs, our team strives to provide cutting-edge care for long-term healthy smiles. We value the unique qualities of each young smile we treat and strive to ensure every visit to our office is a happy, positive one.

The Importance of Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings

We understand that parents of children with special needs can have so many other appointments for medical and behavioral care, that dental care can be easily overlooked. Routine dental exams allow us to uncover potential oral health problems early on, preventing the need for extensive treatments involving sedation or surgery down the road. Moreover, regular cleanings help lower the risk of cavities and gum disease, safeguarding your child’s dental health. Our team will work with you to establish proper brushing and flossing techniques at home and recommend any needed accommodations to ensure your child’s smile stays bright and healthy between dental visits.

Finding the Dental Provider for Your Child with Special Needs

At Pediatric Dentistry of San Marcos, Dr. Greg Allen and Dr. Nadia Bala are both board certified pediatric specialists, that undergone extensive training to manage and treat medically compromised children and children with special needs. Moreover, they both teach special needs dentistry at Rady Children’s Hospital and have trained numerous pediatric dentists in the most up to date, compassionate, dental care techniques to help to meet your child’s unique oral health needs.

We are pleased to have our entire staff trained, and office oriented towards children with special needs, including children with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, or children who use wheelchairs exclusively, so you and your child will be in good hands. Please let us know when booking your upcoming appointment if your child requires special accommodations for a safer, more comfortable, and more effective visit.

Our team at Pediatric Dentistry of San Marcos recognizes that children with special needs may be anxious about getting their needed dental care and may find it challenging to sit still during dental procedures. We also offer a range of sedation dentistry options, including nitrous oxide (laughing gas), or general anesthesia, if needed to help your child relax while receiving the highest level of care.

Special Needs Dental Care Near Me in San Marcos, CA

Visit Pediatric Dentistry of San Marcos to learn more about our special needs dental services. Our team is fully equipped and prepared to adapt to our young patients’ individual needs and will do everything we can to provide your child with exceptional care. We look forward to working alongside you to ensure your child enjoys a lifetime of healthy smiles. Call 760-978-8285 to schedule your child’s appointment or complete our online appointment request form today!