Providing dental care for children with special needs requires patience, compassion and an individualized approach to ensure every child feels safe, respected and valued. At The Point Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to creating a positive and supportive environment where your child can receive the care necessary for a healthy smile. We understand that children with physical, cognitive, emotional or sensory challenges may face unique barriers to oral health, and we are here to help. Dr. Emily Austin and Dr. Michael Tew offers special needs dentistry in Bluffdale, Utah, to ensure your child’s oral health needs are met.
Tailored Services for Every Child
Special needs dentistry in Bluffdale, Utah, addresses the diverse needs of children who may have conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delays or other medical, behavioral or neurological concerns. These children may be more prone to oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease and oral trauma, making regular dental care even more essential.
We recognize that every child is unique, and we work closely with parents and caregivers to develop customized treatment plans. Our pediatric dentists and team take the time to learn about your child’s medical history, communication preferences and comfort levels. We make necessary adjustments to our treatment approach, whether that involves longer appointment times, the use of visual aids or familiarizing your child with our office environment before treatment.
A Patient-Centered Approach
From your first phone call to your child’s appointment day, our goal is to provide support every step of the way. We prioritize open communication, ensuring that parents and caregivers feel heard and involved in every decision. We use simple, clear explanations and adapt our techniques to match your child’s needs, helping reduce anxiety and build trust.
We also offer behavior guidance strategies and, when appropriate, may recommend options such as sedation dentistry to ensure safe and comfortable care. Our team regularly receives training to better understand and meet the needs of our special needs patients in Bluffdale, Utah, and the neighboring areas.
Schedule a Visit With a Caring Team
If your child has special needs and you are looking for a dental home that will treat them with respect and understanding, we invite you to schedule an appointment with our experienced pediatric dentists. Together, we can work toward a lifetime of healthy smiles. Please contact us today at 801-890-1161 to learn more about how we can support your child’s oral health needs through special needs dentistry in Bluffdale, Utah.
Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Dentistry
What makes a pediatric dentist qualified to treat children with special needs?
Pediatric dentists complete additional training beyond dental school that focuses on child development, behavior management and treating patients with complex needs. This specialized education equips them to handle a variety of medical, developmental and emotional challenges, allowing them to deliver safe and effective dental care tailored to each child.
How can I prepare my child for a dental appointment?
Familiarity can ease anxiety, so consider reading books about dental visits or playing pretend dentist games at home. Bringing a favorite toy, blanket or communication device can provide comfort. Sharing your child’s specific needs with the dental team beforehand also helps them create a supportive and welcoming experience.
Are there different tools or techniques used for special needs patients?
Yes. The dental team may use modified instruments, adaptive seating, visual schedules or desensitization strategies to help children feel more at ease. Techniques like tell-show-do and positive reinforcement are also commonly used. Every approach is selected based on what works best for your child’s comfort and cooperation.
Can sedation be used for dental visits if needed?
Sedation may be an option when a child is unable to tolerate dental treatment due to sensory sensitivities, severe anxiety or medical conditions. Options include nitrous oxide, oral sedation or general anesthesia. Our pediatric dentists will carefully assess your child’s health and discuss safe, appropriate choices for their care.
What areas do you serve?
Dr. Austin provides special needs dentistry in Bluffdale, Utah, and to patients in the surrounding areas. Reach out today for more information and to schedule a consultation with our caring pediatric dentists and team.