Dentistry For Children: Down's Syndrome and The Dentist

Dentistry For Children: Down's Syndrome and The Dentist: "Down's Syndrome children can often have a very positive and rewarding experience with the dentist. Most pedodontists and their staff ha..."

Down's Syndrome and The Dentist

Down's Syndrome children can often have a very positive and rewarding experience with the dentist. Most pedodontists and their staff have completed additional training and are comfortable in dealing with those children who have special needs. However, the treatment of Down's Syndrome patients can be very difficult for the patient, parent and dentist. The manner in which treatment is accomplished will depend upon how cooperative the patient is.
An initial evaluation will include having the patient seated in a dental chair alone. If that is possible, then an oral examination is done using only fingers. If this is accomplished, a dental examination using dental instruments will take place. A prophylaxis of teeth is the next step, followed by dental radiographs.
It is possible that the patient will not be cooperative; in which case a papoose wrap is used to immobilize the patient. Parents, dental assistants or the dentist trying to physically hold a patient down can be dangerous and possible bone fractures can occur. A papoose wrap will give an even pressure restraint, a mouthprop may also be needed if a patient will not open, or keep open, their mouth. The mouth prop keeps the patient from biting on an instrument and hurting themselves.
Oral pre-medication for sedation purposes may also be needed. The best way a parent can be confident of the different treatments is to consult their dentist and understand the appropriate treatment. The worse possibility is not to visit a dentist.
There can be many other questions that pertain to a Down's Syndrome patient, but these are some generalities. The best advice for any parent of a Down's Syndrome child is to practice proper oral hygiene and see the dentist regularly.
We are dedicated to providing quality dental care to all of our patients regardless of their physical or mental capabilities. I been trained in comprehensive dental education specific to children and those patients with special needs, and have been treating these patients since 1979 and have instilled in my staff the same confidence and techniques in caring for the special child, which will insure you have a positive experience.