At Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Virginia, we believe that when a child cracks a smile, they deserve to do so confidently with healthy gums and teeth. We also recognize that some children require more specialized care. Our team is committed to making sure that every child has the chance for a healthy smile, including those with special needs. Dental diseases can be prevented for any child, regardless of their individual condition, as long as oral hygiene habits are started early and maintained.
Our Patients
Catering to their unique needs, we happily accommodate all children from infancy through early adulthood. This includes 1 year olds, toddlers and those with special needs including physical, mental and emotional challenges.
Our Specialists
Our team of pediatric dental specialists is well trained and experienced in caring for patients with special needs. Each dentist has received comprehensive education in behavior management, sedation and anesthesia techniques. We suggest establishing care with our patients as early as possible so we can be proactive in preventing oral health issues. When your child becomes a patient, we will build a partnership with you that will ensure the best care is given to your child.
At PDOVA, we support the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommendation that a child’s first trip to the dentist should be after the first tooth appears and by one year of age. This is especially important for children with special challenges. We can offer tips to parents and caregivers so they can promote good oral health habits at home.
Our office can assist special needs patients by:
- Our “open-style” treatment area promoting a supportive and fun environment with entertainment items such as headphones for music and stories.
- Providing and recommending special oral hygiene aids to assist patients who need them.
- Encouraging and welcoming caregivers to stay with their child during an appointment and to work in partnership with us.
- Working closely with the medical community to successfully manage our patients with complex concerns.
- Comforting our patients as much as possible by showing them what we’re going to do before we do it to help ease worries and fears.
- If a child is not able cooperate for treatment, we can administer mild medications that provide some sedation.
Whether your child’s condition is congenital, developmental, or the result of disease or trauma, you can rest assured we will provide the guidance and partnership required to manage his or her special dental care needs. It is our goal to create a comfortable dental home for your child, where treatment can be delivered safely, and ideal dental health can be achieved. Call us today (804) 739-0963.