What is Special Needs Dentistry?

and tooth decay because it makes their teeth difficult to keep clean. In cases of severe intellectual disability or cerebral palsy, children may also habitually grind their teeth, making them flat as they gradually break down the enamel.

Tooth decay and gum disease can also result from a child's impaired immune system and connective tissue disorders. Many of the medications your child may be taking could contain sugar or lead to dry mouth as a side effect, which is especially conducive to tooth decay. Certain medications can also cause an overgrowth of the gum tissue, so be sure to ask your doctor and dentist about the side effects of the medication your child may be taking.

Home Care

It's essential to establish your child's home care routine as soon as you bring them home from the hospital by wiping their gums with a wet gauze pad or a damp washcloth. Once teeth have erupted, brush their teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush, and be sure to floss daily. Be sure to ask your dentist when to start using toothpaste and how much to use. Suppose your child can't rinse or gags easily. In that case, you can brush with antiseptic rinse if your child is older and tolerates the strong taste, which can improve your child's defenses against tooth decay.

Nutrition

Serving nutritious meals and restricting sugary or starchy foods can help baby teeth develop properly and limit exposure to the acid that forms from eating sugar, contributing to tooth decay. Keep healthy snacks in the house and save special sweet treats for mealtime. Brush your child's teeth after eating or have them drink or rinse with water to neutralize those sugary foods' adverse dental effects.

Finding a Dentist

Dentists recommend children have their first dental visit before the age of one, which is especially crucial for children with special needs. Many general and pediatric dentists are equipped to treat children with physical or behavioral disabilities. If you're unsure which dentists in your area are up to the job, look at the advertisement for Children’s Dentistry and Dentistry for Little Folks or check the physician resource directory under Pediatric Dentists of Exceptional Kids for other dentists. During these first visits, the dentist can evaluate your child's dental development and help you create the most appropriate home care routine for your family. There is ample opportunity for children with special needs to get good dental care. By working closely with your child's dentist to put a prevention plan in place, many potential dental problems can be avoided entirely.

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications. Information about local resources was provided by Kameron Chicoine, Publisher of Exceptional Kids Resource Guide and is not part of the original article.

Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad

You are going to love this red white and blue fruit salad. This easy recipe is one of my favorite 4th of July Salad ideas. The fruit glaze in this 4th of July Fruit salad recipe is amazing! So tangy and sweet.

PREP TIME 10 MINS

TOTAL TIME 10 MINS

SERVINGS 8

CALORIES 110

INGREDIENTS

• 16 oz Strawberries (cleaned and cut in half)

• 1 pint Blueberries (rinsed)

• 3 bananas (sliced in thick chunks)

• 1/8 cup honey

• 1 lime juiced

Instructions

• Wash and cut all your fruit.

• Combine in a bowl.

• In a small bowl whisk together the honey and freshly squeezed lime juice.

• Drizzle the honey lime glaze over the fruit and stir slightly to coat.

• Serve immediately or refrigerate.

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