All children are “special” and we treat every child with this in mind, just like we treat our own children. We take pride in this mantra and our office is dedicated to the care we provide for the unique and diverse population of special needs children. We not only find it rewarding but we know that they need and deserve care that is tailored to meet their unique needs. Your child may sometimes be on medications or special diets that impact their oral health, or have difficulty maintaining effective oral health habits at home. This makes them susceptible to dental disease or possible injury and it is good to know we are here for your child!
Treatment Plans for Special Kids and Their Families
We know you are concerned about the long-term as well as the short-term health of your child’s teeth. That is why we are happy to design a preventive care and treatment plan for your child so that he or she may enjoy a lifetime of good dental health. Our team will work with you and will propose a treatment plan based on the specific dental and emotional needs of your special child. Your child will also benefit from the preventive approach recommended for all children – effective brushing and flossing, diet counseling, adequate fluoride, and regular professional cleanings.
What Makes Us Different
Training: Whether it’s a psychological or physical developmental disability or a child with cancer, our office has extensive experience with a large spectrum of conditions. They include (but not restricted to): Attention Deficit Disorder, Autism and Spectrum Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Down’s syndrome, Epidermolysis Bullosa, Retinitis pigmentosa, and Pediatric cancers (on chemotherapy, or in remission). We communicate not only with the child and their family, but also other medical experts important to your child’s medical condition. All children are entitled to and require, not only compassion, but quality dental care. We provide a receptive and understanding environment for any possible occurrence. Your child will receive the best care and be treated with respect. Our staff’s gentle touch and clinical expertise, make us the ideal choice for the dental care of children and adults with special needs in the Northern Westchester, NY area.
Non-Sedation in Office
In our office, children are not placed under sedation or general anesthesia, which can pose complications and health risks. We use Nitrous Oxide analgesia which is a very safe mild analgesic as well as distractions such as videos on our television sets. If absolutely necessary we use a physical restraint to protect your child with parents always present and in the room with their child. We work closely with parents and families to help special needs children stay healthy and smile for life!
Special Needs FAQ
What is special needs dentistry?
Special needs dentistry is for individuals who require special consideration due to physical, behavioral, emotional, developmental or sensory-impaired conditions during dental treatment. Our office has extensive experience with special needs children, teens, and young adults in making standard dental procedures adaptable and positive. Our expertise includes Attention Deficit Disorder, Autism and Spectrum Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Down’s syndrome, Epidermolysis Bullosa, Retinitis pigmentosa, and Pediatric cancers (on chemotherapy, or in remission). We communicate not only with the child’s family members, but also other medical experts important to your child’s medical condition if needed. An average cleaning and check-up costs $150-250 and varies depending if additional x-rays and treatment are required and is covered 100% by our participating insurance plans.
How much does a dental visit cost for a child with special needs?
There is no additional cost for a child with special needs. Our teamworks with you and will propose a treatment plan based on the specific dental and emotional needs of your child. No child or parent is forced into anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or unable to do. We do as much as we can accomplish depending on your child’s needs and wishes. Your child will also benefit from the preventive approach recommended for all children – effective brushing and flossing, diet counseling, adequate fluoride, and regular professional cleanings.
Is the office and equipment accessible?
Our office is wheelchair accessible and is designed with calming visual and auditory distractions to make the visit positive and comforting for a special need’s child and their family. The staff is also well trained at distraction and encouragement techniques and welcome recommendations from parents.
Do special needs children always require sedation?
Our staff has over 25 years of experience treating special needs children with non-sedative techniques. Our office prides itself on effective communication and partnership with parents and has found that many special needs children can experience regular dental check-ups, cleanings and basic procedures without the use and expense of sedation. Our office may recommend the use of a mild analgesic, nitrous oxide, which allows the child to remain alert but relaxed. These practices alleviate possible risks associated with sedating patients at any age.
