Special Needs Dentistry – Emergency Dentists USA https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com Find an Emergency Dentist for your Emergency Dental Situation. Tue, 12 Aug 2025 16:45:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Improving Oral Health For Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease Or Related Disorders (ADRD) https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/alzheimers-dental-care/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/alzheimers-dental-care/#respond Mon, 30 Sep 2019 13:00:34 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=38798 oral health Alzheimer's

In their 2016 report, the Alzheimer’s Association found that a staggering 5.4 million Americans are currently suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders (ADRD). This number is projected to skyrocket to 16 million by 2050, the most pressing epidemic for our aging population.

According to the American Dental Association, among a population of nearly 1.3 million nursing home residents struggling to receive dental care, patients with dementia are particularly at risk for untreated dental disease, and the severe health consequences that can result.

Amanda Tavoularis DDS
“We busy dental professionals need to be able to schedule our Alzheimer’s patients such that we can slow down and allow time for their needs.

Especially the first visit to our offices which is the first chance to build a relationship with the patient and caregiver.”

While it’s alarming that someone develops Alzheimer’s every minute in the United States today, this rate has the potential to double by 2050. The rapidly increasing presence of such a debilitating disease raises serious concerns regarding healthcare costs and the availability of effective treatment options. As a result, we are already seeing inadequacies in dental care for patients with Alzheimer’s.

Poor training and strained communication are among the most prominent reasons dental pain among nursing home residents with Alzheimer’s goes undetected, and therefore untreated.

But the problem is a multi-faceted dilemma, one that will require the awareness and cooperation of patients, caregivers and dental professionals to overcome.

¿Hablas Español? También tenemos este artículo aquí en Español, (Spanish).

Table Of Contents

  1. Alzheimer & Dental Care | Printable Resources
  2. Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dental Care
  3. Dental Problems With Alzheimer’s Disease
  4. Alzheimer’s Patients in The Dental Office
  5. More Caregiver Tips
  6. Additional Resources

Printable Resources

Improving Oral Health for Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease or Related Disorders(PDF)

Questions to Ask Your Dentist (PDF) – Dr. Greg Grillo compiled a list of questions you should be asking your dentist. Take this printable guide with you on your next appointment.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dental Care

The relationship between oral health and general health is often misunderstood, which can result in general health becoming a priority while oral health takes the backseat.

This phenomenon is especially true for patients with Alzheimer’s, given the wide range of mental and physical problems that inevitably earn the attention of caregivers. Failure to provide patients with good oral care has led to an increase in edentulism (tooth loss), denture-related oral mucosal lesions, gingival bleeding, a higher accumulation of plaque and calculus and a decline in salivary gland function (among other symptoms).

Greg Grillo DDS
“While research continues to provide insights to possible causes of a tough disease, we’re going to be managing Alzheimer’s cases for a long time, and a team approach is paramount.”

These explicitly oral problems are just the beginning. Patients are highly susceptible to seemingly non-related issues that begin with poor dental care. Any type of infection, but most specifically oral infections, can cause high blood sugar, which can then cause a whole host of other problems like kidney failure and pneumonia.

Oral neglect is especially prevalent in patients with Alzheimer’s because they are more likely to be living in institutions, financially burdened, have previous instances of oral diseases, swallowing problems and an inability to meet nutritional needs.

Patients are more likely to have overburdened caregivers, functional dependence, and irregular dental attendance. Any combination of these can result in oral health issues at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, caregivers are not always prepared or equipped to detect poor oral hygiene, and noncompliance further complicates the process.

This area of care has become over-regulated and underfunded, so when you have that combination you’ll often times see a high turnover of staff. They get frustrated with the system because they want to help. Most of these people aren’t bad people that are in these facilities, they’re just underpaid and overworked.

Dental Problems With Alzheimer’s Disease

When an individual is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it can cause a number of dental problems along with the effects of the disease. Here are some of the more common dental issues seen in elderly with Alzheimer’s.

dental problems with alzheimer disease

Cavities

If teeth aren’t cleaned properly, bacteria can build up and eat away the enamel. This makes holes in the teeth, called cavities.

Broken teeth

This can be either minor or serious situation. Chipped teeth are minor but should still be fixed quickly. However, if the break goes into the inner part of the tooth it’s more serious and you should take your loved one to be seen right away. Fillings, crowns, and root canals can fall out or chip easily in older people so it’s important to keep an eye out for this.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is an infection inside the tooth’s pulp. This infection spreads quickly to the gums and is very painful. Take your loved one to the dentist right away if you notice any signs of mouth pain or red bumps on the gums.

Dry Mouth

Medication for Alzheimer’s disease, blood pressure, depression, and allergies can cause dry mouth. This happens when the mouth doesn’t make enough saliva. Untreated it can lead to ulcers, sores, and cavities. It can also make you unable to taste and have issues digesting food.

Bad Breath

There are many reasons why your loved one may suffer from bad breath. Poor dental hygiene, dry mouth, infection, medications could be the reason.

Alzheimer’s Patients in The Dental Office

While getting the patient to the dentist’s office is a difficult task on its own, there are just as many challenges once the patient is in the chair. Professionals experience difficulties communicating with the patient, who may be confused or intimidated by unfamiliar people and surroundings.

The standard approach one would take for the average person could prove counterproductive and even dangerous for the dentist and patient alike. Professionals often find that patients with Alzheimer’s are unwilling to cooperate, such as refusing to open their mouths or biting during the checkup.

Ensuring a Successful Office Visit

For a patient with Alzheimer’s, a successful visit to the dentist is a team effort. If possible, the caregiver should be present throughout the process. The support of the caregiver will provide comfort and familiarity for the patient and increase his or her cooperation with the dental professional.

Amanda Tavoularis DDS
“Open communication is vital to our success. We as dental professionals need to provide information to caregivers and family in a non-judgmental way. We need to ask what they observe. An Alzheimer’s patient may not be able to tell us where the pain is but an informed, attentive caregiver may notice a difference in a chewing pattern or wincing when applying chewing pressure.”

For standard appointments, dental professionals and caregivers should both be aware of the steps that will help the process go smoothly:

  • Send the patient a reminder at least one day in advance.
  • Determine the patient’s best time of the day and schedule the appointment accordingly.
  • Make sure the patient empties their bladder before the appointment.
  • Maintain a quiet and private environment.
  • Keep the appointment length to a minimum (no longer than 45 minutes).
  • Be sure to check if the practice does or doesn’t accept the patient’s dental insurance

Dental professionals should provide clear follow-up instructions to the patient and the caregiver, including written instructions for the caregiver, who may be preoccupied with the patient during the appointment. For the treatment process, dental professionals should keep in mind the following responsibilities: plan multiple short appointments instead of a few long ones, avoid treatment that will complicate home care, use local anesthetics with the shortest possible duration, keep the explanation of the treatment to a minimum to avoid patient anxiety, thoroughly explain the treatment and post-treatment instructions to the caregiver, and follow up with the caregiver regarding pain or discomfort, increased confusion or agitation after the visit.

More Caregiver Tips

alzheimer dental care
Regular dental checkups are only part of maintaining good oral health. Caregivers are encouraged to work on a preventative home care approach which includes brushing two times daily and watching for changes in behavior.

It is important for caregivers to be thinking of oral issues in the back of their mind whenever they see changing behavior, especially over a long period of time because some caregivers just think about it as a behavioral issue.

Because patients may be unable to articulate that they are experiencing dental pain, caregivers must consider this possibility at all times.

Amanda Tavoularis DDS
“If we are challenged by a language/communication barrier then we must rely on our detective skills to help us understand the patient’s state of dental health or disease.”

When patients lose the autonomy that most of us take for granted, they lose the means of maintaining their own health, unless others step in with the proper knowledge and awareness to compensate.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, oral health can become more challenging. An individual may forget what to do with toothpaste or may be resistant to assistance from others.

Here are some tips for caretakers to better care for their loved ones with Alzheimer’s.

Give short, simple instructions
alzheimers caregivers dental tips
The best way to explain dental care is by breaking it down into steps. Walk the person through the entire process like how to hold the toothbrush and how to put on the toothpaste.

Watch Me Technique

It can be helpful for someone to see what to do. Hold a toothbrush and show them how you brush your teeth. Then, put your hand over theirs and guide their brush. If there appears to be any agitation, postpone brushing until later that day.

Keep teeth and mouth clean

If your loved one needs assistance keeping their mouth clean, brush their teeth, gums and tongue very gently twice a day. If they wear dentures be sure to rinse them with plain water after meals and brush them daily. Each night, remove them and soak in a cleanser. Use a soft toothbrush to clean the gums and tongue.

Be aware of potential mouth pain

Investigate any signs of mouth discomfort during mealtimes. Refusing to eat or strained facial expressions while eating may indicate mouth pain or dentures that don’t fit properly.

While progress has been made, there are still major challenges ahead, ones that will require great dedication on the part of dental professionals and caregivers to ensure the best oral care from cavities to wisdom teeth extractions, and in turn, the best quality of life for these patients.

Greg Grillo DDS
“Ultimately, we don’t want any of these patients to suffer needlessly from oral conditions that can be prevented with a little loving care. As dental professionals, we can make their lives just a little bit better.”

Additional Resources:

For information on statistics of Alzheimer’s Disease, the 2018 report on the illness from the Alzheimer’s Association.
https://www.alz.org/media/HomeOffice/Facts%20and%20Figures/facts-and-figures.pdf

The Alzheimer’s Association caregiver center, for help for anyone who is a caregiver to an Alzheimer’s Disease patient.
https://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-dental.asp

Alzheimer’s Disease and dental care helpful tips to increase efficiency of daily dental care for Alzehimer’s patients.
http://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_10512.asp

The American Dental Association information on providing dental care for patients with Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s information and additional resources for patients living in the United Kingdom, as well as helpful information dental care information for patients with Dementia.
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/info/20029/daily_living/9/dental_care

Resources and information from “Dementia Today” that help to guide caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s Disease in proper oral hygiene.
http://dementiatoday.com/alzheimers-and-dental-careoral-health/

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A Guide To ADHD And Dental Care https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/adhd-and-dental-care/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/adhd-and-dental-care/#respond Thu, 02 May 2019 15:15:53 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=61185 A Guide To ADHD And Dental Care

ADHD or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a chronic condition that makes it difficult for a person to pay attention and control impulsive behaviors. When it comes to going to the dentist, patients with ADHD have a tendency to feel anxious or stressed which can make it hard for them to focus and sit still during a dental appointment.

With around 9.2% of children ages 2-17 being diagnosed with ADHD, it’s important for caregivers and dental professionals to help patients with ADHD develop healthy oral hygiene habits and feel comfortable at the dentist. Our dental experts, Dr. Greg Grillo, and Dr. Andrew Jordan have spent years working with patients and caregivers educating them on the importance of dental care and providing them with tips for dental visits.

Greg Grillo DDS
“For youngsters with ADHD, their introduction to dentistry often sets the tone for how they relate to oral healthcare for the rest of their lives. As providers, we can make their lives just a little bit better by using a positive, patient approach.”

Table of Contents

  1. ADHD and Dental Care | Printable Resources
  2. The Most Common Dental Issue Seen in Patients with ADHD
  3. Dental Care Tips For Patients With ADHD
  4. Finding the right dentist
  5. Dental Sedation
  6. Preparing for the Dental Appointment
  7. Conclusion
  8. National ADHD resources

ADHD and Dental Care | Printable Resources

ADHD and Dental Care – This printable PDF is an excelled guide for you to be able to share all the information we have collected on this page!

Questions to Ask Your Dentist Before an Appointment – Dr. Greg Grillo compiled a list of useful questions that you can print and take with you when you meet with prospective dentists.

dental issues in patients with adhd dentably

The Most Common Dental Issue Seen in Patients with ADHD

The most common dental issue that many dentists see in patients with ADHD are cavities. This is because of a few different reasons.

First, it can sometimes be difficult for children with ADHD to perform routine activities like brushing their teeth or flossing. These poor oral hygiene practices put individuals with ADHD at risk for cavities. In a study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, only 48% of children ADHD brush their teeth every morning and only 48% brush their teeth every evening. This low percentage proves why it’s important to instill a dental care routine from a very young age.

The second reason children with ADHD are at risk for cavities is because of medication. Medications used to manage ADHD can lead to changes in one’s diet and appetite which can increase a child’s risk for cavities. Side effects of an ADHD medication such as dry mouth also make individuals prone to cavities.

Another study showed that children with ADHD had nearly 12 times the odds of having a high number of diseased, missing, and filled teeth.

DENTAL CARE TIPS FOR PATIENTS WITH ADHD

 

Dental Care Tips For Patients With ADHD

Developing an oral hygiene routine is important to an individual’s overall health. For those with ADHD, this may be more difficult but with repetition and practice, it is possible.

Here are some tips for dental care for parents with children with ADHD:

  • Use highly stimulating educational material
  • Create an atmosphere of confidence with a gentle but firm approach
  • Repeat simplified instructions numerous times
  • Use a tooth brushing chart at home to keep track of the tooth brushing schedule
  • Place emphasis on the brushing of teeth rather than the brushing technique.
  • You may use positive reinforcement/rewards for better results
  • The use of tell-show-do method has been shown to be very effective

The most important thing to remember is that instilling an oral hygiene routine may take time and be trial and error. Be patient and try a combination of techniques until you find what works best for your child.

 

ADHD – Dental Care Tips for Dentists

ADHD – Dental Care Tips for Dentists

Some dentists may be new to treating patients with additional needs. Treating a patient with ADHD can be simple and the acronym UNCAPPED may help parents and dentists have a child’s appointment run more smoothly.

  • Understanding for your patient
  • Non-judgmental attitude
  • Calm. Stay calmed and relaxed
  • Attitude. Keep a positive attitude
  • Praise. Be generous with positive praise
  • Patient. Be patient with your client’s needs
  • Empathy
  • Directness

Finding the right dentist

Along with an effective dental routine, it’s important that your child visits the dentist regularly. Finding the right dentist plays a large part in your child’s oral health so it’s important that as you begin searching you don’t give up until you’ve found someone who you believe is a good fit.

When searching for the right dentist, be sure to ask questions as they will help guide your decisions. Here are some questions to get you started:

find the right dentist for children with adhd

1. Are you comfortable working with a patient who has ADHD?

The dentist you choose should be comfortable working with patients who have additional needs. If the patient is a child, you should begin searching for pediatric dentists. They have 2-3 years of extra schooling and can better accommodate your child’s visit to their needs.

2. What experience do you have working with patients with ADHD?

When speaking with potential dentists, listen to specific examples of when they worked with patients with ADHD. Dentists with previous experience will be more comfortable overall in ensuring that your child’s visit runs smoothly.

3. Can any special accommodations be made?

A good dentist should be able to answer yes to this question. It should be their goal to make your child feel as comfortable as possible. Some accommodations that you may want to request are if you can stay with them throughout their appointment or if waiting room times can be reduced. These small adjustments can make a huge difference in your child’s overall dental experience.

Remember, as a caretaker you are in charge of a dental visit so ask any questions that may come to your mind. The more information you can gather, the better the dental appointment will go.

You can start looking for a dentist by contacting local dental clinics in your area. The American Dental Association also has a directory for you to search for dentists by city, state, and specialty.

Dental Sedation

dental sedation for parents with adhd dentably

Patients with additional needs may benefit from dental sedation during their appointment. Sedation is sometimes necessary if the patient needs dental work done and they do not want to cooperate with the dentist.

There are a few types of sedation that your dentist may offer. They Include:

  • Inhaled minimal sedation: The patient breathes in nitrous oxide combined with oxygen to help them relax. Your dentist will be in complete control of the medication with this method.
  • Oral sedation: This can range from minimal to moderate. Oral sedation is most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. The patient is given a pill that makes them drowsy; a more moderate dose may make the patient fall asleep.
  • IV moderate sedation: A sedation drug is given through the patient’s vein and works more quickly. Your dentist will be able to continually adjust the sedation levels.
  • Deep sedation & general anesthesia: Medication is given that will make the patient nearly or totally unconscious. While under general anesthesia you cannot easily be awakened until the effects of the medication wear off or are reversed.

Greg Grillo DDS
“The key is to find a strategy that works for each patient. With safe, monitored techniques, there’s a sedation solution for every situation, and that can make a huge difference in the current and future health of an individual.”

Preparing for the Dental Appointment

After you’ve chosen a dentist and scheduled an appointment for your child or loved one, it will be important to prepare them for their dental visit. Preparing gives them an idea of what they can expect during their appointment. There are a number of things you can do, so find what works best for you and your child.

  1. Help visualize what happens at the dentist
  2. Using visuals is a great way to see what happens at the dentist. This can be done with storybooks or videos and gives the patient a way to make a connection between the visuals and their dental appointment.

  3. Visit the dentist early
  4. Visiting the dentist prior to the actual appointment can be beneficial because it allows the patient to familiarize themselves with the environment such as seeing the lights and hearing the sounds. You and your child can meet the office and staff members and go over any other accommodations that need to be made.

Going to the dentist should be a good experience, so be sure to keep conversations about the dentist positive and informative.

Conclusion

Dental care and regular dental visits are essential to one’s overall health and well being. Certain behavioral issues may make it difficult for someone with ADHD to develop healthy oral hygiene habits, and medications put those with ADHD at high risk for cavities. As a caretaker, never give up on your child or loved one’s dental health and do your best to instill in them healthy dental hygiene practices, including regular dental check-ups.

Greg Grillo DDS
“While parents often wonder if their kids are listening, repetition and positive reinforcement often does more good than they realize. Using a child-friendly electric toothbrush is one way to raise the level of effectiveness, especially in kids with short attention spans.”

National ADHD resources

There are many great resources for families and individuals affected by ADHD.

The Attention Deficit Disorder Association aims to help individuals with ADHD live better lives by providing information, resources, and support. By becoming a member, you are given access to a directory of healthcare professionals to receive the care that your child or loved one may need.

CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit Disorder) is the nation’s leading non-profit organization serving those with ADHD. You can search their extensive directory of professionals by city, state, and specialty. They also offer resources to an online community for those looking for support groups and other members of the ADHD community.

Cited Studies

  1. Blomqvist M, Holmberg K, Fernell E, et al. Dental caries and oral health behavior in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Eur J Oral Sci. 2007 Jun;115(3):186-91. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0722.2007.00451.x.
  2. American Academy of Pediatrics. ADHD: Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents. Pediatrics. 2011 October, 128(5): 1-6.
  3. Dowst-Mayo L. How to work effectively with patients who have ADHD. Dent Econ. 2014 Sept:105-110.
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Special Needs Dentists in Ohio https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/special-needs-dentistry-ohio/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/special-needs-dentistry-ohio/#respond Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:39:08 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=60587 special needs dentist in ohio

Ohio has a variety of health professionals experienced and willing to help your loved one with special needs. Finding a great dentist may seem difficult but with the right guidance, you will be able to find the perfect dentist that your child or loved one will feel comfortable visiting on a regular basis.

A special needs dentist is an individual that has undergone years of additional training in order to prepare to care for patients with special needs. These individuals will be those that you will generally want to gravitate toward, however, no single database exists that is especially good at locating special needs dentists. Do not fear, we have resources available that will help you find the right dentist.

Special Needs Resources in Ohio

Ohio has many great special needs resources that can help you find a wonderful dentist.

Special needs resources ohio

Start by visiting the Ohio Dental Association. They are a great resource for dental care and finding a special needs dentist. Their directory is full of licensed and certified dentists in Ohio.

Another great resource in Ohio for your loved one with special needs is the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. They have a detailed webpage with special needs resources for Cincinnati and the entire state of Ohio.

Other places to reach out to include collegiate dental schools. These colleges are filled with dental students looking for hands-on experience. Ohio State University offers dental services to children with special needs and many other specialties. Dental school programs often offer care for patients with special needs at a fraction of the price.

National Resources

National resources are another great place for special needs resources and finding a dentist. The American Dental Association (ada.org) allow you to search for a dentist by location and specialty. They are a great resource for all things dentistry, especially special needs dentistry. Visit their website to help prepare for your loved one’s appointment and research what to expect during their dental visits.

Another great national resource is the Special Care Dentistry Association. Their special care dentist referral service can refer to you a dentist in or near your city. You can even specify which insurance you have to make sure the dentist you find fits your needs.

Lastly, there are two great national special needs resources who are committed to connecting families and individuals to resources that help them live fulfilling lives. Visit Autism Speaks and The National Down Syndrome Society to get connected today.

special needs dentists in ohio

What to ask your potential dentist

When looking for a special needs dentist in Ohio, it’s important that you ask a potential dentist questions. This will ensure they are a good fit and will help you and your loved one feel confident at the appointment. Here are a few questions to get you started:

Are you comfortable working with a patient with special needs?

This is an important question to ask as some dentists may not feel comfortable or equipped to accommodate a patient with additional needs. Pediatric dentists receive 2-3 extra years of schooling and are a good start when finding a dentist. They are able to use their schooling to better provide dental care for a patient with special needs.

Do you have experience working with patients with additional needs?

When finding a dentist you will want someone who has previous experience. Be sure to listen for specific examples of a time when a potential dentist has worked with a patient with special needs. Overall they will be more comfortable in ensuring visit runs smoothly and that their patients are at ease throughout their checkup.

What special accommodations can be made?

Your child or loved one has unique needs and may need to have special accommodations made during their appointment. When speaking with dentists, be sure to ask if they are willing and able to make any special accommodations that your loved one may need. This can be anything from having a specific toothpaste flavor, reducing waiting room times, or making sure that the dental chair stays in the same position throughout the visit.

Preparing for the dental visit

Once you have chosen a dentist, you will want to take some steps to prepare for the visit.
Preparing ahead of time is important because it can help decrease feelings of anxiety. There are a number of things you can do before an appointment to prepare and work through any nerves.

  1. Visualizing what happens at the dentist
  2. Visuals are a great way to see what happens at the dentist and make connections. This can be done with stories or videos and gives the patient a way to see what will be happening at their visit.

  3. Visit the dentist early
  4. Visiting the dentist before the scheduled appointment can be beneficial because it allows patients to familiarize themselves with the environment such as seeing the lights and equipment, and hearing the sounds. You and your loved one can meet the office and staff members and go over any accommodations that may need to be made.

sedation dentistry in ohio

Sedation Dentistry

Sometimes patients with special needs can benefit from being sedated with general anesthesia during a dental appointment. Those who are extremely apprehensive or uncooperative may need sedation during their appointments in order to receive the care they need. Sedation dentistry, or “sleep dentistry”, helps to keep the patient calm and in a relaxed state. This type of sedation is not the same as being put under.

There are a few different types of sedation that may be available at your dentist. They include:

Inhaled minimal sedation: Breathing in nitrous oxide combined with oxygen to help relax. Your dentist is in complete control of sedation that is given.

Oral sedation: Can range from minimal to moderate. This type of sedation is most commonly associated with sedation dentistry. The pill makes will make the patient drowsy while a more moderate dose may make the patient fall asleep.

IV moderate sedation: A sedation drug is given through a vein and works more quickly. Your dentist will be able to continually adjust the sedation levels.

Deep sedation & general anesthesia: Medication is given that will make the patient nearly or totally unconscious. While under general anesthesia you cannot easily be awakened until the effects of the medication wear off or are reversed.

If the patient suffers from any other medical conditions be sure to consult with your dentist before choosing a sedation method. You don’t want any medication from the sedation to interfere with the medical condition.

Special Needs Dentist by Region

Central Ohio | Northeast Ohio | Northwest Ohio | Southeast Ohio | Southwest Ohio

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about finding the perfect special needs dentist, you’re in luck. Our team through as many dental offices as we could to find practices that specifically mentioned working with patients with special needs to make your search easier. We’ve provided you with all the information you will need when scheduling an appointment and hope you find this list useful.

If you think there is a practice that should be included in our list, we encourage you to reach out to us!

Central Ohio

Dental Office: Marshall Dental
Resource: https://www.marshall-dental.com/meet-dr-marshall
Address: 5180 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43213
Phone Number: 1 (614) 836-1033
Hours: Mon 8 am – 4 pm; Tues, Thurs 9 am – 5 pm; Wed 9 am – 6 pm; Fri 8 am – 1 pm

Dental Office: Golden Orthodontics
Resource: https://www.goldenorthodontics.com/drgolden
Address: 3015 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43209
Phone Number: 1 (614) 235-4800
Hours: Mon – Fri 8:30 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Precision Orthodontics
Resource: https://www.psgdental.com/doc/dr-frank-pace/
Address: 1685 Lockbourne Rd Suite B, Columbus, OH 43207
Phone Number: 1 (614) 915-3628
Hours: Wed, Thurs 9 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Marshall Family Orthodontics
Resource: https://www.marshallsmile.com/
Address: 1535 Old Henderson Rd # B, Columbus, OH 43220
Phone Number: 1 (614) 451-6464
Hours: Mon 10 am – 6 pm; Tues – Thurs 7:30 am – 4:30 pm

Dental Office: Delaware Smile Center
Resource: https://www.smilecenterohio.com/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 1012 State Rte 521 #202, Delaware, OH 43015
Phone Number: 1 (740) 417-9565
Hours: Mon – Tues 12 pm – 7 pm; Thurs 7 am – 3 pm; Fri 8 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Legacy Family Dental
Resource: https://www.legacyfamilydentaldublin.com/patient-information/dental-specialties/
Address: 6655 Post Rd Suite A, Dublin, OH 43016
Phone Number: 1 (614) 336-7643
Hours: Mon 10:30 am – 6 pm; Tues – Thurs 6:30 am – 3 pm

Dental Office: Schneider Family Dental
Resource: https://www.schneiderfamilydental.com/our-practice/blog/
Address: 5150 Blazer Pkwy, Dublin, OH 43017
Phone Number: 1 (614) 467-8284
Hours: Mon, Tues 8 am – 6 pm; Wed 8 am – 1 pm; Thurs 8 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Dental Reflections Dublin
Resource: https://dentalreflectionsdublin.com/dental-reflections-dublin-dentistry-differently/
Address: 5080 Bradenton Ave A, Dublin, OH 43017
Phone Number: 1 (614) 799-5576
Hours: Mon 7:30 am – 4 pm; Tues, Wed 8 am – 5 pm; Thurs 6:30 am – 2:30 pm; Fri 8 am – 12 pm

Dental Office: Granville Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: https://www.granvillepediatricdentistry.com/pediatric-dentistry/faq/
Address: 1967 Newark Granville Rd, Granville, OH 43023
Phone Number: 1 (740) 587-7000
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Fri 8 am – 3 pm

Dental Office: Holman and Holman Dental
Resource: http://dentist.holmandental.com/dentist-in-hilliard/
Address: 4960 Cemetery Rd Ste A, Hilliard, OH 43026
Phone Number: 1 (614) 682-8645
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Fri 8 am – 12 pm

Dental Office: Lancaster Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: http://www.lancasterpediatricdentistry.com/pediatric-dental-checkups.html
Address: 121 E 6th Ave #101, Lancaster, OH 43130
Phone Number: 1 (740) 475-0700
Hours: Mon – Fri 8 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Kennedy Dental
Resource: https://www.kennedydentalonline.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 202 E 5th St, Marysville, OH 43040
Phone Number: 1 (937) 642-3434
Hours: Mon – Wed 9 am – 6 pm; Thurs 8 am – 2 pm

Dental Office: New Albany Family Dentistry
Resource: https://www.newalbanyfamilydentistry.com/services/general-family-dentistry/special-needs-dentistry/
Address: 68 N High St Building F, New Albany, OH 43054
Phone Number: 1 (614) 656-4379
Hours: Mon – Wed 8 am – 5 pm; Thurs 8 am – 4 pm; Fri 8 am – 2 pm

Dental Office: Pataskala Family Dental
Resource: http://www.pataskalafamilydental.com/services/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 722 Corylus Dr SW, Pataskala, OH 43062
Phone Number: 1 (740) 964-5138
Hours: Mon, Wed 8 am – 5 pm; Tues, Thurs 10 am – 7 pm

Dental Office: Shirck Orthodontics
Resource: https://www.shirckorthodontics.com/about-us.html
Address: 196 E Broad St Ste B, Pataskala, OH 43062
Phone Number: 1 (740) 927-0667
Hours: Mon – Fri 8:15 am – 5:30 pm

Dental Office: New Leaf Dental
Resource: http://www.newleaf.dental/procedures/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 686 Corylus Dr SW, Pataskala, OH 43062
Phone Number: 1 (740) 964-3500
Hours: Mon, Fri 8 am – 4 pm; Tues – Thurs 8 am – 7 pm

Dental Office: Kathleen A. Varley, D.D.S.
Resource: http://www.drvarley.com/
Address: 1600 Brice Rd, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Phone Number: 1 (614) 864-4200
Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs 7:30 am – 5 pm; Wed 7:30 am – 2 pm

Dental Office: Buckeye Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: https://www.buckeyepediatricdentistryohio.com/about/
Address: 1418 Brice Rd # 203, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
Phone Number: 1 (614) 575-2225
Hours: Mon 8:30 am – 4:30 pm; Tues – Thurs 8:30 am – 5 pm; Fri 8:30 am – 1 pm

Dental Office: Oral Health Center
Resource: https://www.theoralhealthcenter.com/patient-information/sedation-dentistry/iv-sedation/
Address: 660 Cooper Rd #200, Westerville, OH 43081
Phone Number: 1 (614) 888-6811
Hours: Mon, Thurs 9 am – 6 pm; Tues 7:30 am – 3 pm; Wed 8 am – 5 pm; Fri 8 am – 2 pm

Dental Office: Dr. Anthony Lordo DDS
Resource: http://drlordo.com/about.html
Address: 1000 High Street Suites A and B, Worthington, OH 43085
Phone Number: 1 (614) 379-6156
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Tues 8 am – 7 pm

Northeast Ohio

Dental Office: Gentle Dental
Resource: http://www.drjenniferjerome.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 1865 Brown St, Akron, OH 44301
Phone Number: 1 (330) 724-4093
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs 7 am – 3 pm; Tues 10 am – 7 pm

Dental Office: DiPiero Family Dental, LLC
Resource: https://www.dipierofamilydental.com/blog/tag/oral+health.html
Address: 1376 N Portage Path, Akron, OH 44313
Phone Number: 1 (330) 867-9494
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Berea Family Dental
Resource: http://www.bereafamilydental.com/our-services/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 359 Front St, Berea, OH 44017
Phone Number: 1 (440) 234-2813
Hours: Mon, Wed 8 am – 5 pm; Tues 10 am – 7 pm; Thurs 8:30 am – 5:30 pm; Fri 8 am – 3 pm; Sat 7:30 am – 1 pm

Dental Office: Today’s Dentistry
Resource: http://www.todaysdentistryspa.com/procedures/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 4301 Ridge Rd, Brooklyn, OH 44144
Phone Number: 1 (216) 749-0747
Hours: Mon, Tues 9 am – 6 pm; Wed 9 am – 3 pm; Tues 2 pm – 7 pm

Dental Office: Sangeetha K. Sethi DMD
Resource: http://www.drsethikidsteeth.com/our-doctor/
Address: 6674 Tippecanoe Rd #4, Canfield, OH 44406
Phone Number: 1 (330) 702-8543
Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs 9 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Said Dental
Resource: https://www.saiddental.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 4565 Dressler Rd NW #102, Canton, OH 44718
Phone Number: 1 (330) 493-9388
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Tues 7 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Childrens Dental Associates
Resource: http://childrensdentalparrishbrown.com/about_us.php
Address: 8401 Chagrin Rd # 2, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
Phone Number: 1 (440) 708-1331
Hours:

Dental Office: Bradley S. Rabal DDS
Resource: https://www.rabal-dentistry.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 3609 Park E Dr # 514, Cleveland, OH 44122
Phone Number: 1 (216) 593-8000
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Tues 10 am – 7 pm; Fri 8 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Morrow DDS
Resource: http://www.morrowddsllc.com/our-services/family-dentistry/
Address: 414 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Phone Number: 1 (330) 923-8111
Hours: Mon, Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Tues 12:30 pm – 7:30 pm; Fri 8 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Dr. Jeffrey W. Laubmeier, DMD
Resource: http://www.jwldentistry.com/procedures/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 14583 Madison Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107
Phone Number: 1 (216) 226-3084
Hours: Mon – Wed 7 am – 5 pm; Thurs 7 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Dr. Trista’s Children’s Dentistry
Resource: https://www.drtristasmiles.com/dr-trista-smiles
Address: 5255 Mayfield Rd, Lyndhurst, OH 44124
Phone Number: 1 (440) 459-2100
Hours: Tues 8 am – 4 pm; Wed, Fri 8 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Mellion Orthodontics
Resource: https://www.mellionorthodontics.com/meet-dr-theresa-mellion-minter
Address: 3235 Wales Ave NW, Massillon, OH 44646
Phone Number: 1 (330) 833-3335
Hours: Mon – Wed 8:30 am – 5:30 pm; Thurs – Fri 7 am – 3 pm

Dental Office: Landerbrook Dental Professionals
Resource: https://www.ldprofessionals.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 5825 Landerbrook Dr suite 222, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Phone Number: 1 (216) 752-8888
Hours: Mon – Fri 8 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Fioritto Family Dental
Resource: https://www.fiorittodental.com/dr-bryce-cremean.html
Address: 6303 Center St, Mentor, OH 44060
Phone Number: 1 (440) 951-5511
Hours: Mon 7:30 am – 5 pm; Tues, Thurs 7:30 am – 6:30 pm; Wed 7:30 am – 7 pm; Fri 7:30 am – 4 pm; Sat 8:30 am – 2 pm

Dental Office: Budrys Dental
Resource: https://www.budrysdental.com/patient-education/dental-specialties/
Address: 7423 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060
Phone Number: 1 (440) 951-1318
Hours: Mon, Tues, Fri 8 am – 5 pm; Thurs 8 am – 7 pm; Sat 8 am – 2 pm

Dental Office: Dowell Dental Group
Resource: https://www.dowelldental.com/procedures/special-needs-patients
Address: 817 E Lincolnway, Minerva, OH 44657
Phone Number: 1 (330) 868-5001
Hours: Mon 9 am – 5 pm; Tues 8 am – 6 pm; Wed, Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Fri 8 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Erwin T. Su, DD
Resource: http://drerwinsu.com/childrens-dentistry-services/
Address: 6655 Frank Ave NW, North Canton, OH 44720
Phone Number: 1 (330) 494-1993
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Fri 8 am – 12 pm

Dental Office: North Royalton Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: https://www.northroyaltonpediatricdentistry.com/blog/offer-dentistry-children-special-needs/portrait-of-beautiful-happy-girl-giving-thumbs-up/
Address: 6391 Royalton Rd Suite B, North Royalton, OH 44133
Phone Number: 1 (440) 457-1222
Hours: Mon, Tues 8 am – 5 pm; Wed 9 am – 6 pm; Thurs 8 am – 4 pm; Fri 9 am – 2 pm

Dental Office: Rocky River Dental
Resource: http://www.rockyriverdental.com/procedures/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 21851 Center Ridge Rd STE 506, Rocky River, OH 44116
Phone Number: 1 (440) 331-3211
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Jane A. Silk, DDS
Resource: https://www.janesilkdds.com/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 6200 Som Center Rd # D10, Solon, OH 44139
Phone Number: 1 (440) 248-6699
Hours: Mon 2:30 pm – 5 pm; Tues, Thurs 11 am – 6 pm; Wed 9 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Silk & Silk Inc
Resource: https://www.davidsilkdds.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 6200 Som Center Rd # D10, Solon, OH 44139
Phone Number: 1 (440) 248-6699
Hours: Mon – Thurs 7 am – 2 pm

Dental Office: Johanna K. Conrad, DDS
Resource: https://www.jconraddds.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 730 Broad, Wadsworth, OH 44281
Phone Number: 1 (330) 336-6590
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8:30 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Dr. Kathryn M. Shroyer
Resource: https://www.westlakeprosthodontics.com/patient-information/dental-specialties/
Address: 25101 Detroit Road, Suite 410, Westlake, OH 44145
Phone Number: 1 (440) 835-4848
Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 9 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Dr Fred
Resource: http://drfredkids.com/aboutdrfred.html
Address: 2860 Bishop Rd, Willoughby Hills, OH 44092
Phone Number: 1 (440) 585-0011
Hours:

Northwest Ohio

Dental Office: Bowling Green Pediatric Dental Group
Resource: https://www.dentists4kids.com/find/frank-l-pace-jr/
Address: 1221 Ridgewood Dr Suite B, Bowling Green, OH 43402
Phone Number: 1 (419) 352-2593
Hours: Mon 8 am – 6 pm; Tues – Thurs 8 am – 4:30 pm

Dental Office: Minster Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: https://www.minsterpediatricdentistry.com/pediatric-dentistry.html
Address: 4215 OH-66, Minster, OH 45865
Phone Number: 1 (419) 628-3380
Hours: Mon – Wed 8 am – 5 pm; Thurs 8 am – 3 pm

Dental Office: Dental Excellence
Resource: http://www.happy-dentistry.com/pediatric-dentistry.html
Address: 875 Westmoreland Ave, Napoleon, OH 43545
Phone Number: 1 (877) 216-9296
Hours: Mon – Thurs 7 am – 7 pm; Fri 8 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Firefly Children’s Dentistry
Resource: https://fireflysmiles.com/types-of-sedation/
Address: 10005 Fremont Pike, Perrysburg, OH 43551
Phone Number: 1 (419) 405-7171
Hours: Mon – Fri 8 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Westmeyer Dental
Resource: https://www.westmeyerdental.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 4560 Heatherdowns Blvd # 200, Toledo, OH 43614
Phone Number: 1 (419) 382-3485
Hours:

Southeast Ohio

Dental Office: Belpre Dental Solutions
Resource: https://belpredentalsolutions.com/pediatric-dentistry/
Address: 218 Maple St, Belpre, OH 45714
Phone Number: 1 (740) 423-5551
Hours: Mon – Fri 8 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Hal S.Jeter, DDS Inc.
Resource: http://www.jeterdds.com/treatment/special-needs
Address: 804 4th St E, South Point, OH 45680
Phone Number: 1 (740) 377-2020
Hours: Mon, Tues 8:30 am – 6 pm; Wed, Thurs 8:30 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Kids First Pediatric Dental Care
Resource: https://kidsfirstpdc.com/
Address: 3539 Cliffhanger Way, Zanesville, OH 43701
Phone Number: 1 (740) 617-1797
Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs 8:30 am – 5; Wed 8:30 am – 2:30 pm

Southwest Ohio

Dental Office: Bellbrook Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: https://bellbrookpediatricdentistry.com/pediatric-services/
Address: 4354 W Franklin St, Bellbrook, OH 45305
Phone Number: 1 (937) 848-4848
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8 am – 5 pm; Fri 8 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Smiles 4 Kids Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: http://www.smiles4kids.net/about-us.php
Address: 11350 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45246
Phone Number: 1 (513) 771-5231
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8:30 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Hyde Park Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: https://hydeparkpediatricdentistry.com/services/silver-diamine-fluoride-sdf/
Address: 3870 Paxton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45209
Phone Number: 1 (513) 979-6998
Hours: Mon, Thurs 8:30 am – 5 pm; Tues 2 pm – 5 pm; Wed 7:30 am – 1 pm

Dental Office: Pediatric Dentistry of Anderson
Resource: https://www.pediatricdentistryofanderson.com/
Address: 7655 Five Mile Rd Ste 214, Cincinnati, OH 45230
Phone Number: 1 (513) 232-0550
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8:30 am – 5 pm; Fri 8 am – 12 pm

Dental Office: Thomas J. Madl Jr., DMD
Resource: http://www.harrisonpediatricdentistry.com/Office-Info-and-Forms.html
Address: 1003 Harrison Ave # 300, Harrison, OH 45030
Phone Number: 1 (513) 367-4048
Hours: Mon – Wed 7:30 am – 5 pm; Thurs 7:30 am – 3 pm

Dental Office: Dennis Lambert, DDS
Resource: http://www.cincykidsteeth.com/blog/why-choose-pediatric-dentist/
Address: 8205 Corporate Way, Mason, OH 45040
Phone Number: 1 (513) 754-8900
Hours: Mon, Tues 8:30 am – 5 pm; Wed – Fri 8:30 am – 4 pm

Dental Office: Milford Pediatric Dentistry
Resource: https://milfordsmiles4kids.com/
Address: 1106C Main St, Milford, OH 45150
Phone Number: 1 (513) 831-3434
Hours: Mon – Thurs 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Dental Office: Ginn Dental Care
Resource: https://ginndental.com/meet-dr-ginn/
Address: 1109 Washington Ave, Washington Court House, OH 43160
Phone Number: 1 (740) 335-6861
Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 8:20 am – 5 pm; Wed 7:40 am – 5 pm

Dental Office: Wilmington Dental Arts
Resource: https://www.wilmingtondentalarts.com/dental-health/dental-specialties/
Address: 293 N South St, Wilmington, OH 45177
Phone Number: 1 (937) 382-2042
Hours: Mon – Thurs 7:15 am – 5 pm; Fri 7:15 am – 2 pm

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Pros and Cons of a Mobile Dentist https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/mobile-dentist/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/mobile-dentist/#respond Tue, 23 Apr 2019 20:27:37 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=61469

It’s no wonder why so many people dislike the dentist: whether you need simple teeth cleaning or an intense dental surgery, a visit to your dentist can be expensive, time-consuming, and particularly challenging for people with special requirements.

For some, mobile dentistry might be a better option than booking an appointment at a traditional dentist. This is especially for true for those among us who may struggle to commute back and forth—such as the elderly or people with disabilities—or those of us who might be apprehensive at the dentist and benefit from accessing care in the familiar surroundings of our own home.

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Evidence has shown that a mobile dental clinic offers promising results both in America and abroad, although you might still be on the fence about whether or not it is right for your family. Here are some of the benefits and challenges of the practice to help you make an informed decision for your family:

Pro: Vulnerable Communities Are Often a Primary Focus

Dentistry has a reputation for being elitist medical care—after all, over seventy million Americans have no dental coverage in their insurance plans and many more have limited coverage that makes even the most basic trip to the dentist a financial challenge. Therefore, whether you need root canals, are suffering from gum disease, or simply want to see one of the many great dental hygienists,complete mobile dentistry on your doorstep is an enormous plus.

Additionally, there are many small hassles that add up when going to a dentist.What happens when you can’t find a suitable doctor in your area? What happens when you are public transit bound? How will you get home from surgeries if you have no one in your life to assist you?

Mobile dentistry tries to address these issues by specifically focusing on vulnerable patients. Some mobile dental services work out of a “dental clinic on wheels,” where all the equipment needed for dental care is available while others offer services right in the comfort of a patient’s home. Many mobile dentists offer both.

For this reason, mobile dentists are a great resource for elderly patients, people with disabilities and those with busy schedules. It is also a great option for rural or isolated communities that may not have a traditional clinic anywhere nearby.

As mobile dentists often treat patients with special needs and accessibility requirements, they often have the proper training and experience needed to work with patients from all backgrounds as well, making the entire experience easier on patients.

Con: The Services Can Be Limited

Like with any traditional dentist, the range of available services at a mobile dentist will vary. Although many mobile dentists can offer a full range of services, including surgeries and cosmetic procedures, others will only be equipped for basic care.

If you find a mobile dentist that you are interested in, ask about what services they have available. If you require lots of dental work, a mobile dentist might not be an accessible option for you.

Pro: Mobile Dentists Can Be an Affordable Option…

Dental work can be expensive. In fact, this is a leading reason why patients are unable to visit the dentist as regularly as they might need to and want to.

Mobile dentistry is a practice built on the idea of bringing high-quality dental care to patients who may not otherwise receive it so affordable practices are often a priority as well. Some clinics offer sliding-scale pricing that ensures dental care is affordable, even for uninsured patients.

Some mobile clinics are even operated by non-profit organizations to help ensure the affordability of every service.

Con: …But You Will Still Need to Do Your Research

Simply because mobile dentistry has a reputation for being a cheaper option does not make it so. If you are not familiar with the cost of dental services, it might be easy to assume that a mobile clinic is the cheapest way to go and, therefore, not question it.

The reality is that many mobile clinics offer prices that are on par with traditional clinics. In fact, some may even have additional charges for bringing your care right to your doorstep. Some traditional clinics even have a mobile dentistry component that’s entirely connected to their clinic.

For this reason, you should always check with both your mobile dentist and, if applicable, your insurance provider, before booking an appointment.

Pro: Care on Your Own Schedule

The limited hours of many medical clinics create a serious challenge for working patients. Whether you have small children, limited appointment days at work, or struggle to find time as a result of balancing multiple jobs, making it to an appointment within the traditional 9-to-5 time frame can be a real obstacle.

Mobile dentistry can make this easier on you. As mobile dentists are already forgoing the basic structure of a traditional dentist’s office, their hours of operation are in many cases much wider as well. Many mobile dentists are able to cater to patients’ needs and provide services in the evening or early morning.

However, just as with pricing, you should be automatically convinced that a mobile dentist will be able to perfectly within your schedule. Always ask about a mobile dentist’s operating hours, as well as their policies surrounding cancellation.

Con: The Challenge of Finding a Mobile Dentist

If you have decided that mobile dentistry is right for you and your family, you might be wondering about the next step: finding a mobile dentist. Sometimes, mobile dentists are even harder to find than traditional dentist offices. With their locations not fixated, a simple Google search could leave you without any solid leads.

Fortunately, we can help. By calling our toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-(855)-282-1699, we can help you find a dentist (mobile or otherwise) that can cater to your specific needs, located in your area, wherever you live in the country. You can also visit our website to learn more about the services we offer.

Everyone deserves the best quality dental care—and finding a dentist suitable for you should be the least of your worries. Through our hotline service, we can help you access affordable care in your own local area, from Alaska to Hawaii, so that you can stop looking for a dentist and start receiving treatment from one.

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HMO vs. PPO Dental: Which Is Right for You? https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/hmo-vs-ppo-dental/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/hmo-vs-ppo-dental/#respond Tue, 23 Apr 2019 20:12:08 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=61452
HMO vs PPO Dental

Like with standard health insurance, when it comes to choosing insurance plans for dental coverage, there is a lot to consider about each you are considering before enrolling. The plan you choose affects:

  • Where you can go for dental procedures
  • Which services are covered by this plan
  • How much you will be paying out-of-pocket

It is up to you to decide what your needs are medically and which type best fits the criteria you have set for yourself financially. Two dental plans that you may be thinking about enrolling in are the HMO plan and the PPO plan.

Let’s go over what each plan is, the benefits of each, the downsides of each, the difference between the two, and which you should choose according to your lifestyle and preventive care.

A Complete Look at HMO Dental Insurance

What Is HMO Insurance?

HMO, in this case, is an acronym for Health Maintenance Organization. The dental equivalent of this plan is called DHMO. Under DHMO insurance, you will be working with providers in the network that have agreed to cover many services to members enrolled in the plan.

How Does It Work?

Members are required to choose a primary care provider. (Or, in this situation, a primary dentist.) You will see this physician for any medical needs you may have. This professional determines whether your issue calls for the service of a specialist or not.

The Benefits of Enrolling in a Dental HMO Plan

There are quite a few upsides to being a member of a dental HMO insurance plan that you should consider.

  • If your primary care physician does refer you to a specialist, your insurance plan will likely cover the costs.
  • Members of these plans will typically pay very few out-of-pocket expenses. These expenses are also outlined for you ahead of time so you know what you can expect (if anything). This means that you have virtually no surprise fees that can set you back financially when you are not prepared.
  • Some plans do not require you to pay a deductible fee before your medical needs are covered by your HMO insurance.

The Downsides to HMO Insurance
The Downsides to HMO Insurance

This plan sounds great, and it is—but there are some drawbacks to think about and weigh against the pros.

  • If you would like to see a care provider that is not listed as being in the HMO plan network, then you will not be covered for any services you receive in their care. The doctor who you were seeing before will have to go if you enroll in the plan and they aren’t in the network.
  • If you decide to go to a specialist without a referral, you will have to pay out-of-pocket fees. A referral makes all the difference financially. Avoiding this situation is easy as long as you follow your plan’s guidelines.

An Example of a DHMO Plan

If you would like to see a more in-depth look at what a DHMO plan entails, look at this description provided by the Humana insurance company.

After you read over what this particular plan covers, get a quote from this company on your insurance costs and see if your regular dentist is already in the network of providers.

A Complete Look at Dental PPO Plans

What is PPO Insurance?

PPO stands for Preferred Provider Organization. This dental insurance plan lets you work with in-network providers for heavily subsidized out-of-pocket costs, but you can also go see out-of-network providers if you so choose.

How Does It Work?

Members enrolled in PPO insurance get to pick who they see, but they do not have to stick to one provider. As long as a member chooses a dentist under the PPO plan when they go to look for one in the area, the insurance will cover part of the cost of services.

The Benefits of Enrolling in a Dental PPO Plan

The benefits of choosing a PPO insurance plan when it comes to dental work are abundant, and they particularly suit those who need more freedom. Here are a few that are typical of PPO plans.

  • You can see a wide range of providers; you are not restricted to just one physician for all of your needs. This means that if you are out of town, you can likely still be covered for emergency dental work if you choose a PPO provider.
  • If you see a PPO dentist instead of someone out-of-network, you will pay lower fees out-of-pocket. While you have the freedom of doing both, you can still benefit financially from seeing a network provider.
  • You pay your portion of the services and you don’t worry about being billed later.

The Downsides to Choosing a PPO Insurance Plan

Like any other plan, there are cons of choosing to enroll in a dental PPO insurance plan.

  • These plans usually require you to meet a deductible before getting coverage, which can be costly and a pain.
  • The maximum amount of coverage you have per year can be around $1,000, which is not very much if you need extensive procedures.
  • Different services require you to pay different percentages of copays, so it can be a little difficult to keep up with and you might not be as prepared as you thought you were when it comes time to hand over your card.

An Example of a Dental PPO Plan

The Aetna insurance company provides a dental PPO plan with an overview of what you can expect when you enroll in the program. It gives you a more comprehensive look at exactly what you will be getting when you sign up. Click here to learn more about it.

Differences Between HMO Plans and PPO Plans

Overall, the differences between the two plans will sway your decision on which one you would prefer to get.

  • HMO costs are prepaid, PPO costs are not.
  • HMO plans do not require a deductible, PPO plans do.
  • HMO plans have fixed prices for services, PPO plans have varied costs.

Determining Which Dental Plan Is Right for You

HMO If…

  • You want to know exactly what you will be paying before you go into an appointment
  • You do not want to deal with paying a deductible
  • You want a prepaid plan instead of paying as you go

PPO If…

  • You want the freedom to switch providers and still be covered without a referral first
  • You want to pay as you go for services
  • You want lower out-of-pocket costs with your providers

How to Find a Dentist in Your Network

In the age of the Internet, it is easier to find dentists that accept your insurance plan than ever. Instead of waiting on the phone while you are placed on hold, you can find providers you need with the click of a button.

Let us help you pick the best network dentist in your area; use our “Find a Dentist” function! If you would actually prefer to call with questions that can’t be answered through our basic search engine or you have a dental emergency, call us at this toll-free number: 1 (855) 282-1699.

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New Study: Children with Autism are Most at Risk in these States for Oral Health Problems https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/most-at-risk-states-for-oral-health-and-autism/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/most-at-risk-states-for-oral-health-and-autism/#respond Mon, 08 Apr 2019 16:21:16 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=61080 Government research from 2017 estimates 1 in 40 American children has autism, up from a previous estimate of 1 in 59 children. Dentably has funded a study which examines both levels of dental care, and levels of diagnosis and treatment of autism, nationwide.

Going to the dentist is important for all children, but there is additional care that needs to be given to children with autism. Anyone that has a hypersensitivity to external stimuli would find that being poked and prodded with pointy objects to be a scary experience. Children with autism are already at a greater risk for dental complications due to behavioral challenges.

We took a look at all 50 states and Washington DC to come up with our own Dentably Oral Health Risk Index. Through this index, we can show in which states children with autism may be at a higher risk of developing oral health problems.

dentably oral health risk index

Key Findings

Missouri

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 63.5

Missouri has the worst ranking on the Dentably Oral Health Risk Index because children with autism living there are not being taken to the dentist or receiving dental treatments as often as they should.

Nevada

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 61.3

We applaud Nevada for its significant rate of autism-related behavioral treatment. However, there is a lack of dental care for children overall showing that children with autism may be at risk.

Oklahoma

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 56.1

Oklahoma has a high percentage of children diagnosed with ASD, yet alarmingly low percentages of children receiving dental care.

South Carolina

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 55.7

South Carolina has a better rate of children receiving dental care but a shocking amount of children with autism who are not receiving medical or behavioral treatments.

California

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 55.1

A large number of children in California have been diagnosed with autism and the majority are not receiving medical or behavioral treatments coupled with a lack of dental care.

Michigan

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 53.7

Michigan has slightly better numbers for when it comes to children receiving dental care, but their percentages for children with autism receiving treatment is still low.

Ohio

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 52.4

While Ohio is doing well to treat their children with autism, there aren’t many children receiving dental care instructions.

Florida

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 51.9

Florida does not have a high percentage of children diagnosed with autism, but there is a lack of treatment for those who are diagnosed as well as a lack of dental care.

Illinois

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 51.8

There is more medication being given to children with autism in Illinois but a lack of behavioral treatment. Dental care for children has room for improvement.

Tennessee

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 51.0

There’s a small number of children with autism receiving medical or behavioral treatment while dental care is better but can still be improved.

In comparison to the states providing better healthcare to children with autism, the states listed above have much room for improvement.

Nebraska

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 37.0

Nebraska has some of the highest percentages for children with autism receiving medical and behavioral treatment. Most children here are receiving sufficient dental care as well.

Connecticut

Dentably Oral Health Risk Index Rank: 33.4

Connecticut is a great example of how a state can provide for its children with autism. Children receive behavioral and medical treatments for their autism. Dental care for children overall is high.

dentably oral health risk index cities

Why We Conducted This Study

Dental care is essential to one’s overall health and well-being and it’s especially important that those with autism are able to receive the care they need. This study identifies trends and potential health risks for children with autism in hopes that communities can use this data to improve healthcare and special needs resources.

Greg Grillo DDS
“It was important to us at Dentably to fund this study as a resource to the community. The applications stretch far beyond children with autism and include any child that has apprehension or anxiety about visiting the dentist, whether special needs or not.

Our goal when compiling this information was to make planning, decisions, and dental health care overall just a little more seamless and smooth for affected families.”

Methodology

Children with autism have special dental needs that can not be ignored. With that in mind, we began analyzing data from the 2017 National Survey of Children’s Health. We looked at states where children under 17 had not visited the dentist in the last year as a significant risk factor to children with autism.

In fact, we looked at ten different dental health indicators and ranked them from most important to least important and then weighted them accordingly. We also took a look at which states showed higher percentages of providing children with autism treatment (both with medication and behavioral treatments) and added these factors to our ranking as well. After ranking and weighting each relevant factor we came to our Dentably Oral Health Risk Index number.

Citations

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Gum Disease & Alzheimer’s https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/gum-disease-and-alzheimers/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/gum-disease-and-alzheimers/#respond Thu, 14 Feb 2019 15:15:20 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=60159 Gum Disease and Alzheimer's
Recent studies have shown that there is a possible connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s. The bacteria in periodontitis can travel from the mouth to the brain causing neurons to be destroyed. It’s important to keep your gums and teeth healthy to avoid gum disease for your overall health and lower your chances of getting Alzheimer’s.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a common but preventable dental condition seen mostly in adults. Approximately half of American adults suffer from some form of gum disease. This common condition can become serious if left untreated. You may have gum disease if you are experiencing any swollen, red, and tender gums. Your gums may also bleed when brushing or flossing. Other symptoms may also include bad breath and frequent toothaches. If you suffer from severe periodontitis you are more susceptible to abscessed teeth as well.
dental care and alzheimer's
Gum disease usually begins as gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. If poor dental care continues, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis if not treated. Its primary cause is plaque buildup. If plaque is left to build up it can become mineralized it can turn into hard tartar. Tartar can only be removed by your dentist scraping it off. Visiting your dentist for a professional cleaning twice a year can help with plaque build up and fight gum disease. Also, having a good dental care routine at home that includes brushing and flossing daily can help prevent the condition.

Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s

With Alzheimer’s and Dementia being the fifth leading cause of death around the world, doctors and researchers have been hard at work to find the cause and slow or reverse the harsh progress and effects of this condition.

While more research needs to be done, there have been studies that show that gum disease may play a role in Alzheimer’s. Nearly 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s, most being over 60 years old. A bacteria present in gum disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, can travel from the mouth to the brain. These bacteria secrete a toxic protein that can destroy brain neurons. As mentioned, more research needs to be done as it still is not clear if gum disease bacteria actually triggers Alzheimer’s. However, previous studies showed that people with chronic gum disease for 10 years or more had a 70 percent higher risk of Alzheimer’s than those without gum disease.

Dr Greg Grillo DDS
“There’s still a lot we don’t understand about the link between oral and systemic health. But it’s clear that the mouth influences general wellness, so maintaining excellent oral health is paramount to lowering the risk of many other diseases.”

Practicing good dental health for Alzheimer’s prevention

Good dental health is important to your overall health and will help you prevent gum disease. If you can prevent yourself from contracting gum disease, you may be able to lower your chances of getting Alzheimer’s. The best ways to practice good dental care are:

alzheimer's and gum disease

  1. Visiting a dentist twice a year
  2. Your dentist is going to be able to clean your teeth better than anyone. It’s important to schedule routine visits once every six months. They can make sure that plaque is not building up on your teeth and if they notice signs of gum disease they can provide you with the treatment you may need.

  3. Brushing and flossing
  4. Brushing your teeth twice a day is the best way for you to avoid plaque buildup at home. However, brushing too hard can get oral bacteria into your bloodstream, so be gentle. Flossing once a day right before bed is also a great way to remove any food or debris near your gums and avoid them from getting irritated.

  5. Eating a healthy diet
  6. Eating a diet that is rich in vitamins and nutrients is one of the key ways to keep your gums and teeth healthy. You’re going to want to eat an abundance of fruit and vegetables as they are the best sources of vitamins and nutrients. It’s important to avoid sodas, candy, juice, and other foods high in sugar. It’s okay to enjoy these in small amounts but overconsumption of sugar can cause cavity and tooth decay, leaving you more susceptible to gum disease.

  7. Avoiding tobacco
  8. Tobacco products not only put your life in danger, but the usage of tobacco products can also lead to gum disease. The chemicals cause cell damage and break down the connective tissues that keep your teeth in place. The more one consumes tobacco, the worse the effects can be. To keep your gums and teeth healthy it’s best to avoid tobacco altogether.

Frequently Asked Questions- Gum Disease & Alzheimer’s

    What causes gum disease?

    Gum disease is caused by severe plaque build-up in the mouth. This can happen from not properly caring for your teeth and gums or if you consume too much tobacco.

    How can I prevent gum disease?

    The best way to prevent gum disease is to visit your dentist twice a year. Also, brushing, flossing, and eating a nutrient-rich diet are good ways to prevent the disease. It’s best to avoid smoking and chewing tobacco to avoid contracting this disease as well.

    How can Alzheimer’s be prevented, with gum disease being so common?

    As mentioned, more research needs to be done to know if gum disease is what’s actually causing Alzheimer’s. There are a lot of other factors that could cause someone to contract Alzheimer’s and the condition still baffles experts on what causes is it and how to manage it. Maintaining good oral care and preventing gum disease is the best thing for you to do.

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Scheduling Nightly Oral Health Habits for Kids with Autism https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/scheduling-nightly-oral-health-habits-for-kids-with-autism/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/scheduling-nightly-oral-health-habits-for-kids-with-autism/#respond Thu, 31 Jan 2019 19:14:58 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=59189 Scheduling Nightly Oral Health Habits for Kids with Autism

Dr. Greg Grillo DDS

As a dentist, one of the things I say over and over is to make sure you have good habits at home. This is especially important to instill in children; and where I get a lot of questions is from parents with autistic children. They understand the importance of a nightly oral routine, but struggle with getting their child to commit to it. To help, I’ve put together some quick tips that should hopefully get your child brush each and every night, and help get them accustomed to the new activity.

Make It a Routine

First off, make your child’s oral care a daily routine. There are many individuals with autism who benefit from having a set schedule, so make sure dental care is an expected part of their routine. This also helps them understand that is a daily and necessary task; the end goal should be accepting that they must brush every night.
oral health autism kids

Demonstrate the Process

A good way to introduce the process is to show your child first how you do it. This includes both brushing and flossing. I find it helpful to not only show the child, but also explain how each part of the process is cleaning the teeth. For example, explain how you need to make sure that they get both the front and back of the tooth. If your child is receptive to it, you can also gently demonstrate the process by brushing/flossing their teeth the first couple of times.

Make the Process Time Bound

A great way to keep the child engaged in the process is to have some sort of audio/visual timer that shows progress. This also helps avoid unclear endings, instead of saying “you’re almost done” they can simply see the timer (or hear the music) and know how much longer there is.

There are many ways to accomplish this. Some people just use a simple stop watch or analog timer. For a more sophisticated solution, there are toothbrushes that play songs to match the time allotted for brushing. The key here is to find what works best for your child. In some cases, a music playing toothbrush could be too much for certain children, while a loud timer going off might be a problem for others.

Create a Comfortable Environment

While most people will brush in the bathroom, when you first start it might be easier to use an already comfortable location. Many parents have reported success with starting on the couch, in the bath, or similar, and then gradually moving into the bathroom once the routine has been mastered. This can help encourage them at first and give them a sense of control during the start of a new activity.

Consider Rewards

Another very popular method is to have some sort of incentive or reward. This could be a physical reward, or just praise for a job well done. For example, a week’s worth of brushing with no problems might earn the child an extra 15 minutes of television.

Once again, this is going to be reliant how child responds to rewards. Some will and some won’t, while for some only certain rewards will prompt the desired behavior.

Good Nightly Oral Habits

I can’t stress enough how important it is for any child to practice good nightly oral habits. The goal is to make it almost second nature, and an accepted part of your nightly routine. It can take some time to get into it, but it will prevent many problems down the road and help your child lead a healthier life. It can be tricky to start with an autistic child but is well worth the effort!

If you’re left with any questions don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They want what’s best for your child and can provide further assistance in helping them on the road to good oral health.

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Como Mejorar la Salud Bucal para Pacientes con Enfermedad de Alzheimer u Otros Trastornos Similares (ADRD) https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/alzheimer-salud-bucal/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/alzheimer-salud-bucal/#respond Wed, 03 Oct 2018 15:25:40 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=62504 salud bucal para pacientes con alzheimer

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En su reporte del 2016, la Asociación de Alzheimer encontró que la asombrosa cantidad de 5.4 millones de estadounidenses padecen de la Enfermedad de Alzheimer u Otros Trastornos Similares (ADRD por sus siglas en inglés). Se calcula que este número aumentará exponencialmente a 16 millones para el 2050, lo que hace de esta enfermedad la epidemia más problemática para la población de personas mayores.

De acuerdo con la Asociación Dental Americana, en una población de casi 1.3 millones de residentes de asilos de ancianos que batalla con recibir cuidado dental, los pacientes con demencia son los que particularmente están en riesgo de desarrollar enfermedades dentales, y por consiguiente, de sufrir las consecuencias de este tipo de problemas.

Amanda Tavoularis DDS
“Como dentistas que estamos siempre ocupados necesitamos dar espacio a nuestros pacientes con Alzheimer, y asegurarnos de tener el tiempo disponible para cubrir sus necesidades” .

Especialmente durante la primera visita a nuestros consultorios, porque es la primera oportunidad de desarrollar una relación con el paciente y su proveedor de cuidados”.

De por sí es alarmante saber que alguien está desarrollando Alzheimer cada minuto en Estados Unidos, y potencialmente este ritmo podría duplicarse para el 2050. El incremento de la presencia de esta enfermedad tan debilitante genera una preocupación en términos de costos del cuidado de salud y la disponibilidad de tratamientos efectivos. Como resultado de esto, ya es evidente la presencia de cuidado dental inadecuado en pacientes con Alzheimer.

La falta de capacitación y la dificultad para comunicarse son las razones más predominantes por las que el dolor dental en los residentes de asilos no es detectado, y por lo tanto no es atendido.

Pero el problema es multifacético, y requiere de la sensibilización y cooperación tanto de los pacientes, como de los proveedores de cuidados y profesionales de la salud dental para que pueda ser resuelto.

Tabla de Contenidos

  1. Alzheimer y Salud Dental | Información para Imprimir
  2. Entendamos el Alzheimer y la Salud Dental
  3. Problemas Dentales y la Enfermedad de Alzheimer
  4. Pacientes con Alzheimer en el Consultorio Dental
  5. Consejos Adicionales para los Proveedores de Cuidados
  6. Fuentes de Información Adicional

Información para Imprimir

Cómo Mejorar la Salud Bucal para Pacientes con Alzheimer u Otros Trastornos Similares (PDF)
Preguntas para Su Dentista (PDF) – El Dr. Greg Grillo compiló una lista de preguntas que debes hacerle a tu dentista. Lleva esta guía contigo a tu próxima cita.

Entendamos el Alzheimer y la Salud Dental

La relación entre la salud bucal y la salud en general es frecuentemente malentendida, lo que puede llevar a que la salud general se convierta en una prioridad y la salud dental pase a segundo término.

Este fenómeno es especialmente latente para pacientes con Alzheimer, dado que el amplio rango de problemas mentales y físicos inevitablemente captan más la atención de los proveedores de cuidados. La falta de cuidado dental adecuado para estos pacientes ha generado un incremento en edentulismo (pérdida de dientes), lesiones de la mucosa bucal relacionadas con las dentaduras postizas, sangrado gingival, una alta acumulación de placa y cálculos, y una disminución de la función de la glándula salival (entre otros síntomas).

Greg Grillo DDS
“Las investigaciones continúan proporcionando información acerca de las posibles causas de esta dura enfermedad, pero mientras tanto, tendremos que seguir atendiendo casos dentales en pacientes con Alzheimer, y es fundamental que lo hagamos en equipo”

Estos problemas específicamente bucales son sólo el comienzo. Los pacientes son muy susceptibles a otros problemas que aparentan no estar relacionados con una mala salud dental. Cualquier infección, y especialmente infecciones bucales, puede causar niveles altos de azúcar en la sangre, lo cual puede a su vez ocasionar otros problemas como insuficiencia renal y neumonía.

El descuido dental es especialmente prevalente en pacientes con Alzheimer porque es más probable que vivan en asilos o residencias especiales, que tengan limitaciones financieras, que hayan tenido problemas previos con enfermedades bucales y problemas al tragar, y tengan dificultad de cubrir sus necesidades nutricionales.

Es probable que estos pacientes tengan dependencia funcional, cuenten con proveedores de cuidados con sobrecarga de trabajo, y que no tengan atención dental regular. En algún momento, esta combinación puede resultar en problemas bucales. Desafortunadamente, los proveedores de cuidado no siempre están preparados o equipados para detectar una mala higiene bucal, lo que complica más el problema.

Este campo del cuidado de la salud está siendo reglamentado en exceso y poco financiado, esta mezcla frecuentemente genera una alta rotación de empleados. Se frustran con el sistema porque quieren ayudar. La mayoría de los empleados en este tipo de instalaciones son buenas personas, pero no reciben una remuneración justa y la sobrecarga de trabajo es abrumadora.

Problemas Dentales y la Enfermedad de Alzheimer

Cuando una persona es diagnosticada con Alzheimer, se pueden desatar varios problemas dentales junto con los efectos de la enfermedad. A continuación enlistamos algunos de los problemas dentales más comunes en los pacientes mayores con Alzheimer.

problemas dentales con la enfermedad de alzheimer

Caries
Si los dientes no se limpian de manera adecuada, las bacterias se acumula y se “comen” el esmalte. Esto hace que se hagan agujeros en los dientes llamados caries.

Dientes rotos

Esto puede ser tanto un problema menor como un problema serio. Los dientes astillados no son alarmantes pero aun así deberían ser atendidos con prontitud. Hay que señalar que si la fractura llega al interior del diente, la situación se vuelve más complicada y el paciente debe recibir atención profesional inmediata. Los empastes, coronas, y endodoncias pueden astillarse o caerse fácilmente en las personas mayores, así que es importante prestarles atención.

Absceso Dental

Un absceso dental es una infección dentro de la pulpa del diente. Esta infección viaja a las encías rápidamente y es muy dolorosa. Lleve a su ser querido al dentista lo más pronto posible si nota cualquier señal de dolor bucal o erupciones rojas en las encías.

Boca Seca
Las medicinas para tratar el Alzheimer, la presión alta, depresión, y alergias pueden causar boca seca. Esto sucede cuando la boca no produce suficiente saliva. Si no es tratada, puede ocasionar úlceras, llagas y caries. También puede causar la pérdida del sentido del gusto y problemas digestivos.

Mal Aliento

Hay muchas razones por las que tu ser querido puede tener mal aliento. Mala higiene bucal, boca seca, infección o medicamentos pueden ser algunas de ellas.

Pacientes con Alzheimer en el Consultorio Dental

Sólo el hecho de llevar el paciente al consultorio dental es una tarea difícil, y hay aún más retos una vez que el paciente ya se encuentra listo para ser atendido. Hay dificultades en la comunicación entre los profesionales y el paciente, quien puede estar confundido o sentirse intimidado por las personas e instalaciones con las que no está familiarizado.

El enfoque estándar que uno tomaría para el paciente promedio puede ser contraproducente e incluso peligroso tanto para el dentista como para el paciente con Alzheimer. Los dentistas frecuentemente se topan con pacientes con Alzheimer que no quieren cooperar: se rehúsan a abrir la boca o los muerden durante el chequeo.

Cómo Asegurar una Cita Dental Exitosa

Para un paciente con Alzheimer, una visita al dentista exitosa es sinónimo de trabajo en equipo. Si es posible, el cuidador primario deberá estar presente durante el proceso. El apoyo de esta persona proporciona confort y familiaridad al paciente, aumentando la posibilidad de que esté dispuesto a cooperar con el dentista.

Amanda Tavoularis DDS
“La comunicación abierta es vital para nuestro éxito. Nosotros como profesionistas dentales necesitamos proporcionar información sin juicios a los cuidadores y familiares del paciente. Necesitamos preguntar qué es lo que observan. Un paciente con Alzheimer tal vez no nos pueda decir dónde está localizado el dolor, pero un proveedor de cuidados que presta atención y está informado, puede notar una diferencia entre los patrones de alimentación, de masticado o si el paciente parece molesto cuando mastica.”

Para citas estándar, los dentistas y los proveedores de cuidados deben de estar al tanto de los pasos que hay que tomar para que el proceso no tenga contratiempos:

  • Envíe un recordatorio al paciente por lo menos un día antes de la cita.
  • Determine cuál es la mejor hora del día para el paciente y programe la cita de acuerdo con esto.
  • Asegúrese que el paciente vacíe su vejiga antes de la cita.
  • Mantenga un ambiente tranquilo y privado.
  • Haga que la duración de la cita sea mínima (no más de 45 minutos).
  • Asegúrese de preguntar si la oficina dental acepta el seguro dental del paciente o no.

Los profesionales dentales deben proporcionar al paciente instrucciones de seguimiento claras y específicas, así como instrucciones escritas para el cuidador, pues pudo haber estar distraído con el paciente durante la cita. Para el tratamiento, los dentistas deben de tomar en cuenta las siguientes responsabilidades: planear múltiples citas cortas en lugar de menos citas pero más largas, evitar tratamientos que compliquen el cuidado del paciente en casa, utilizar anestesia de mínima duración, explicar el tratamiento al paciente de manera breve y sencilla para disminuir su ansiedad, explicar el tratamiento y las instrucciones posteriores a éste de manera exhaustiva al proveedor de cuidados, además de darle seguimiento al dolor, incomodidad o confusión por parte del paciente después de la visita.

Consejos Adicionales para los Proveedores de Cuidados

consejos para cuidadores de pacientes con alzheimer

Los chequeos dentales regulares son sólo una parte de la salud dental. Es recomendable que las personas responsables del cuidado de estos pacientes mantengan un enfoque de salud dental preventivo, como cepillarse los dientes dos veces al día y observar cambios en su comportamiento.

Es importante que los cuidadores no se olviden de los problemas bucales cuando vean un cambio en el comportamiento del paciente, especialmente si éste sucede a lo largo de un amplio periodo de tiempo, porque es común que consideren que sólo es un problema relacionado con la conducta.

Dado que los pacientes tal vez no puedan articular que están sufriendo de un dolor dental, se sugiere que los proveedores de cuidados siempre consideren esta posibilidad.

Amanda Tavoularis DDS
“Si nos enfrentamos al reto de una barrera en la comunicación/lenguaje, entonces debemos confiar en nuestras capacidades de detective para que podamos entender el estado de la salud dental de nuestro paciente y si hay alguna enfermedad.”

Cuando los pacientes pierden la autonomía, que la mayoría de nosotros damos por hecho, pierden la capacidad de cuidar de su propia salud, y necesitan que otras personas con el conocimiento adecuado tomen las riendas y ayuden a compensar esta falta.

A medida que el Alzheimer avanza, la salud bucal puede ser más retadora. Un individuo puede olvidar qué hacer con la pasta de dientes o se niega a aceptar la ayuda de otros para el cepillado.

A continuación enlistamos algunos consejos para los cuidadores con el fin de brindar una mejor atención dental a su ser querido con Alzheimer.

De instrucciones cortas y simples
mas consejos para cuidadores de pacientes con alzheimer
La mejor manera de explicar el cuidado dental es desglosando paso por paso. Explique y demuestre al paciente todo el proceso, desde cómo sostener el cepillo de dientes hasta cómo ponerle la pasta de dientes.

Técnica “Obsérvame”
Puede ser útil para el paciente observar lo que otra persona hace. Sostenga un cepillo de dientes y demuéstrele a la persona como se los cepilla. Coloque su mano sobre la del paciente y guíela durante el cepillado. Si parece que hay confusión o alteración, posponga la actividad para más tarde.

Mantenga sus Dientes y Boca Limpios
Si su ser querido necesita asistencia manteniendo su boca limpia, ayúdeles a cepillarse suavemente los dientes, encías y lengua dos veces al día. Si utiliza dentaduras postizas asegúrese de enjuagarlas con agua simple después de cada comida y cepíllelas diariamente. Cada noche, remuévalas y sumérjalas en su líquido limpiador. Utilice un cepillo suave para limpiar las encías y la lengua.

Esté al Pendiente de un Posible Dolor Bucal
Investigue cualquier señal de incomodidad bucal durante las comidas. Cuando se rehúsan a comer o fruncen la cara mientras comen, esto puede ser indicativo de dolor dental o de dentaduras que no encajan debidamente.

A pesar de que ha habido avances, aún existen muchos retos que requerirán de mucha dedicación por parte de los profesionales del ámbito dental y de los proveedores de cuidados para asegurar que los pacientes reciban la mejor atención dental, desde tratamiento de caries hasta extracciones de muelas del juicio, y poder así proporcionarles la mejor calidad de vida posible.

Greg Grillo DDS
“Al final, no queremos que ninguno de estos pacientes sufra sin razón por condiciones bucales que pueden ser prevenidas con un poco de cuidado y amor. Como profesionistas dentales, podemos hacer sus vidas un poco mejor. ”

Fuentes de Información Adicional:

Para información acerca de estadísticas de la Enfermedad de Alzheimer, refiérase a este reporte de la Asociación de Alzheimer del 2018.
https://www.alz.org/media/HomeOffice/Facts%20and%20Figures/facts-and-figures.pdf

Centro para proveedores de cuidados de la Asociación de Alzheimer, que ayuda a cualquier persona responsable de los cuidados de un paciente con la Enfermedad de Alzheimer.
https://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-dental.asp

Consejos de utilidad para el cuidado dental en personas con Alzheimer para incrementar la eficiencia del cuidado dental diario en pacientes con Alzheimer.
http://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_10512.asp

Información de la Asociación Americana Dental acerca del cuidado dental para pacientes con Demencia y Enfermedad de Alzheimer.
Información y recursos adicionales sobre Alzheimer para pacientes que viven en el Reino Unido, así como información de utilidad para el cuidado dental en pacientes con Demencia.
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/info/20029/daily_living/9/dental_care

Fuentes de información y contenido de “Dementia Today” que ayudan a guiar a los proveedores de cuidados de pacientes con Alzheimer en términos de higiene oral adecuada.
http://dementiatoday.com/alzheimers-and-dental-careoral-health/

Artículos Relacionados:
Autismo & el Cuidado Dental

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Local Dentists Trained To Serve Autistic Patients https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/dentist-for-autistic-patients/ https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/dentist-for-autistic-patients/#respond Thu, 19 Jul 2018 14:42:07 +0000 https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/?p=53154 children with autism dentist
For children with autism, even simple daily tasks can turn into complicated situations. A dentist appointment for example, can be quite the ordeal with an autistic child. For these children, going to a specialized dentist who can provide proper care can help make the process and procedures as smooth as possible.

The problem is that a dentist office is full of various stimuli. This involves things like loud noises, the various tools and instruments, as well as overall stress that going to a dentist can bring. Also, keep in the potential for meeting a large number of new people that can be a trigger for some kids. The dentist’s office can be a stressful experience for any kid, and having autism only makes that worse.
autism dentist
With that in mind, it’s also important for people of all ages to visit their dentist regularly. Children with autism shouldn’t be deprived of this important step toward oral and overall health.

Luckily, working with a trained dentist can make the experience smooth and pleasant for all involved. There are many special needs dentists who are happy to work with children with autism, and will take the steps necessary to help them feel comfortable from check in until walking out.

Common Dental Problems Found in Patients with Autism

In general, the dental problems that autistic patients suffer from are very similar to other patients. The biggest issues arise when a child does not receive regular dental visits and issues are allowed to progress. The longer you wait between checkups the worse issues get, so it’s important to follow the schedule recommended by your dentist.

Dental issues also stem from improper care at home. It’s important to start learning good habits such as brushing and flossing at home. Building these routines early helps contribute to good oral health later. This can be challenging with children with autism, but it’s important to follow through and make sure it’s taken seriously.

That said, those with autism are more likely to develop certain oral problems based on their behaviors. This includes things like tongue thrusting, bruxism, and hyper gag reflex. If you suspect any of these issues it’s important to visit a dentist right away to prevent them from worsening. Also, be sure to listen to your child for any complaints of pain or other oral problems.

Preparing for The Visit

When setting up your dental visit good planning is essential. Due to the nature of autism, what is considered a trigger for your child is likely to be vastly different from others. For that reason, it’s important to understand what sets your child off and plan accordingly.

The best first step is to simply call the dentist office and express your concerns over the stimuli likely to upset your child. Many dentists are happy to work with you and provide an environment that will keep your child comfortable. This includes involving the whole staff, from the receptionist to the hygienist, and making sure they understand the situation. Some additional strategies might be:
Patients with Autism

Sensory Support: Some families will give their child headphones or sunglasses to help reduce the stimuli in the office. The glasses help with the bright lights that dentists use to properly see into your mouth, while the headphones can reduce the noise from drills and other dental instruments. These ideas are specific to your child, so give some thought to the dental procedure, and what types of stimuli might be present that could upset your child.

Explain The Process: Many parents start by going through the whole process first before even going to the dental office. This is especially important with children with autism, as it can help them understand the process before going. Using visual aids can help make the process less scary. Anything to help your child understand the process can potentially put them at ease.

Show The Process On You First: Some families also let their child watch them go through an exam first. The child sits in the room while the dentist goes through the process on the parent. This can help demystify the whole process and show them how easy the whole procedure is. Many times the unknown can be scary, so removing the curtain can help make the whole process easier.

Rewards: Many children respond well to rewards systems, and many dentists offer small toys after a visit. This is good encouragement, and letting your child know about the possibility of a reward for good behavior can help nudge them in the right direction.

These are just some simple ideas of what you can do to make the process as transparent as possible. The key is to understand the types of triggers that affect your child, and plan accordingly. As mentioned, always talk to the dentist first as they may have experience in dealing with autistic children and can help make everything as easy as possible.

Tips For Parents

As always, good dental hygiene starts at home. It’s just as important to make sure that good habits like brushing and flossing are developed at home, and then supplemented by a dental visit. Setting up good habits early can help prevent issues in the long term.

Teach them Habits: As with any kid, building the core habits is important from a young age. Teach them the proper way to brush and floss, and emphasize how important is to do every night. It may seem like a losing battle at first, but over time you’ll ingrain it into them and they’ll get into the habit of doing so.
autism dental visit

Watch Diet: Children with autism may have dietary restrictions or extreme likes/dislikes for certain foods. While it’s important to work with your child, limiting their intake of sugary drinks and foods will help their teeth overall. Also, try to avoid them falling asleep with juice or other sugary drinks which can erode enamel and pool in the mouth.

Regular Checkups: While practicing good habits at home is key, nothing substitutes for an actual dentist visit. While it can be a stressful experience, hopefully the ideas in this article can help make the appointment pleasant for all. It really is extremely important, children with autism are less likely to receive regular checkups. This contributes to an overall lower quality of oral health.

Patients With Autism

Having an autistic child can make many things in life difficult, but it doesn’t have to make going to the dentist impossible. With a little bit of planning and forethought, going to the dentist can be a pleasant experience. It’s also very important to go to dentist, so don’t delay. The longer you wait the more of problem things become, so make it a point to go for regular checkups.

FAQ

What Can I Do To Help My Autistic Child at The Dentist?

It depends on a lot of the specifics of what sets of your child. The first step is to understand what sort of stimuli they respond negatively to, and then work to reduce that during the visit. For example, if loud noises set them off consider having them wear headphones during their appointment.

dentist children with autism faq

What Are Some Tips For Keep My Autistic Child’s Teeth Healthy?

In general, follow the same oral care tips as anyone else including regular brushing and flossing. For those with autism, it sometimes requires additional support and reinforcement in order to develop the proper habits, so stick with it. It also means going to all your scheduled appoints as nothing can quite substitute for a professional cleaning and exam.

How Can the Dentist Help Autistic Children?

Many dentists are trained to deal with children that are on the spectrum. Your best bet is to call your dentist and discuss the situation with them. Many dentists work with autistic kids, and will do all they can to help ensure the appointment is smooth and pleasant. They also typically have their entire staff trained so they can be help make the entire process comfortable.

What Sort Of Oral Issues Are Autistic Individuals More At Risk For?

In general, autistic individuals have the same risk factors as everyone else. That said, certain behavioral issues can make it difficult to develop good dental habits, as well as making it difficult to visit a dentist. This can lead to a variety of different dental issues, but is largely based on the individual. The key is encourage good behavior and habits at home, and then make sure to follow up with scheduled dental appointments.

Are all pediatric dentists able to provide dental care for special needs patients who are children?
No, not all pediatric dentists are able to provide dental care for children with special needs. Although pediatric dentists are among the most qualified to provide these services, it often takes a large amount of extra training to become a special needs dentist. Many pediatric offices employ at least one dentist who has completed this type of training.

What if my child needs more support than my local special needs pediatric dentist can provide?
Sometimes a patient requires a little more support than a local special needs pediatric dentist can offer in a dental office setting. In this case, certain dentists can provide services in a hospital setting with a more comprehensive sedation plan or a plan for restraints that are provided in the hospital.

Let Us Help You Find a Special Needs Dentist Near You

When the time comes to search for a special needs dentist near you, the Emergencydentistsusa.com website is a perfect choice for beginning and ending the search. Just log onto our convenient website and scroll through our hand-selected listing of nearby special needs dentists. Click on the dental office that you choose, and view the services that each dentist offers. You can also find important information like insurances accepted, office hours, and driving directions right on the Emergencydentistsusa.com website. Pediatric dentists and adult special needs dentists are all listed in a format that is simple to follow and that is right at your fingertips. Use the Emergencydentistsusa.com website to select a dentist in your area, and even set up that first appointment using the information that is always available online. Our website makes selecting the right special needs dentist near you a simple task.

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