Special Needs Dentistry for Children with Disabilities in Lewisham

Comprehensive Assessment for Children with Special Needs

At London Dental Specialists, our Special Needs Dentistry for Children with Disabilities begins with a thorough consultation and assessment. This crucial first step ensures we understand each child's unique requirements and create a tailored treatment plan. Our specialist paediatric dental team takes the time to gather comprehensive information about your child's medical history, dental needs, and any specific challenges they may face.

What to Expect During the Initial Consultation:

• Detailed Medical History Review: We carefully examine your child's medical records, including any existing conditions, medications, and previous dental experiences.


• Oral Examination: Our gentle approach allows us to assess your child's oral health, identifying any immediate concerns or potential issues.


• Sensory and Behavioural Assessment: We evaluate your child's sensory sensitivities and behavioural needs to create a comfortable environment for future visits.


• Parent/Carer Consultation: We value your input and discuss any concerns or specific requirements you may have for your child's dental care.

Tailored Approach for Special Needs:

Our team is experienced in adapting our assessment techniques for children with various disabilities, including:

• Autism Spectrum Disorders


• Cerebral Palsy


• Down Syndrome


• Learning Disabilities


• Physical Disabilities


• Sensory Processing Disorders

Creating a Personalised Treatment Plan:

Based on the comprehensive assessment, we develop a customised treatment plan that addresses your child's specific dental needs while accommodating their disabilities. This may include:

• Preventive care strategies


• Specialised cleaning techniques


• Adaptive equipment recommendations


• Behaviour management approaches


• Sedation options, if necessary

Our goal is to ensure your child receives the highest quality dental care in a supportive, understanding environment. We work closely with you to implement a plan that promotes long-term oral health and a positive dental experience for your child with special needs.

Special Needs Dentistry for Children with Disabilities Custom Treatment Plan

Following the comprehensive assessment, our specialist team at London Dental Specialists develops a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your child's unique needs. This plan forms the foundation of our Special Needs Dentistry for Children with Disabilities service, ensuring that every aspect of your child's oral health is addressed with care and precision.

Key Components of Our Custom Treatment Plans:

• Individualised Oral Health Strategy: We create a personalised approach to maintaining your child's dental health, considering their specific challenges and abilities.


• Adaptive Treatment Techniques: Our plans include specialised methods and tools to accommodate your child's physical or sensory needs during dental procedures.


• Behaviour Management Strategies: We incorporate tailored techniques to help your child feel comfortable and cooperative during dental visits.


• Preventive Care Programme: A crucial part of the plan focuses on preventing dental issues, including customised home care routines and regular check-ups.


• Sedation Options: When necessary, we outline safe sedation choices to ensure your child's comfort during more complex procedures.

Customisation Based on Specific Needs:

Our treatment plans are meticulously crafted to address various special needs, including:

Collaborative Approach:

We believe in a team-based strategy for optimal care. Our custom treatment plans involve:

• Parent/Carer Involvement: We provide detailed guidance on at-home care and how to prepare your child for dental visits.


• Interdisciplinary Coordination: When beneficial, we liaise with your child's other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care.


• Regular Reviews and Adjustments: We continuously assess the effectiveness of the plan, making modifications as your child's needs evolve.

At London Dental Specialists, our goal is to provide exceptional, compassionate dental care that adapts to your child's special needs. Our custom treatment plans are designed to not only address immediate dental concerns but also to foster a positive, long-term relationship with dental care, promoting lifelong oral health for your child.

Special Needs Dentistry for Children with Disabilities Treatment Procedures

At London Dental Specialists, we provide tailored treatment procedures for children with special needs, ensuring comprehensive and compassionate dental care. Our experienced team utilises specialised techniques and equipment to address the unique challenges faced by children with disabilities during dental visits.

Adaptive Treatment Techniques:

• Sensory-Friendly Approach: We create a calming environment with dimmed lights, noise-cancelling headphones, and weighted blankets to reduce sensory overload.


• Tell-Show-Do Method: We explain and demonstrate each procedure before performing it, helping to alleviate anxiety and build trust.


• Visual Schedules: We use picture boards or digital aids to outline the treatment steps, providing a clear understanding of the process.


• Positive Reinforcement: We offer praise and small rewards to encourage cooperation and create positive associations with dental care.

Specialised Equipment and Procedures:

Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art tools designed for children with special needs, including:

• Adaptive dental chairs for comfortable positioning


• Specialised handheld x-ray devices for quick and easy imaging


• Quieter, less intimidating dental instruments


• Oral sedation options for anxiety management

Common Treatment Procedures:

We offer a range of dental treatments tailored to the needs of children with disabilities:

• Preventive Care: Regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to prevent decay


• Restorative Procedures: Fillings, crowns, and extractions using gentle techniques


• Orthodontic Care: Custom braces or aligners adapted for special needs


• Oral Hygiene Education: Personalised instruction for parents and carers on maintaining oral health at home

Sedation and Anaesthesia Options:

For children who require additional support during treatment, we offer:

• Nitrous Oxide: Mild sedation to help reduce anxiety


• Oral Sedation: Medication to induce a state of calm for more involved procedures


• General Anaesthesia: Available for complex treatments or severe anxiety cases, performed in a hospital setting

Our team at London Dental Specialists is committed to providing safe, effective, and compassionate dental care for children with special needs. We work closely with parents and carers to ensure each child receives the most appropriate and comfortable treatment possible, promoting long-term oral health and positive dental experiences.

Post Special Needs Dentistry for Children with Disabilities Treatment Care

Ongoing support and follow-up care are essential components of our Special Needs Dentistry for Children with Disabilities service at London Dental Specialists. After completing your child's dental treatment, we provide comprehensive post-treatment care to ensure continued oral health and positive dental experiences. Our dedicated team remains committed to supporting your child's unique needs throughout their dental journey.

Personalised Home Care Instructions:

• Customised Oral Hygiene Routines: We provide detailed guidance on brushing, flossing, and other oral care techniques specifically adapted for your child's abilities and needs.


• Specialised Dental Products: Recommendations for adaptive toothbrushes, modified flossing tools, and appropriate dental products suited to your child's specific requirements.


• Visual Aids and Resources: Picture schedules, videos, and other visual supports to help establish consistent home care routines.


• Parent/Carer Training: Hands-on instruction for parents and carers on effective oral hygiene techniques for children with various disabilities.

Structured Follow-up Programme:

We implement a tailored follow-up schedule based on your child's individual needs, which may include:

• More frequent check-ups than typically recommended for children without special needs


• Regular professional cleanings adapted to your child's sensory sensitivities


• Ongoing assessment of oral health status and treatment effectiveness


• Preventive treatments such as fluoride applications and dental sealants

Continuous Support Services:

• Telephone Support: Our team is available to address any concerns or questions between appointments.


• Digital Communication: Options for virtual consultations when appropriate to minimise disruption to your child's routine.


• Coordination with Other Healthcare Providers: We work collaboratively with your child's medical team to ensure comprehensive care.


• Medication Management: Guidance on how dental treatments and medications may interact with your child's existing medical regimen.

Long-term Oral Health Planning:

We develop progressive care plans that evolve with your child's changing needs, considering:

• Developmental milestones and their impact on oral health


• Transitional care as your child grows


• Preventive strategies to address common dental issues associated with specific disabilities


• Adaptive approaches that promote independence in oral care where possible

At London Dental Specialists, we understand that successful dental care for children with disabilities extends well beyond the treatment room. Our comprehensive post-treatment support ensures your child maintains optimal oral health while building positive associations with dental care that will benefit them throughout their life.