Medina Pediatric Dentistry is pleased to provide dental care for special needs patients and those with complex medical conditions in a caring and supportive atmosphere. Dr. James Kozik is uniquely qualified to provide special needs patients with superior dental treatment that they may not be able to receive in a traditional dental setting. He is qualified to care for a wide variety of patients including those with autism, Down syndrome, fragile x, Prader-Willi, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy or Seizure disorders, anxiety, intellectual disabilities, diabetes, and other complex medical conditions.
Going to the dentist can be scary for any child, but children with special needs have greater anxiety, and Dr. Kozik’s advanced training includes specialized behavior management and sedation techniques.
Below are common questions regarding special needs dental care. Should you have other questions concerning special needs dental care please contact our office.
Q & A Special Needs Dentistry:
Q Do special children have special dental needs?
A: Most do. Some special children are very susceptible to tooth decay, gum disease, or oral trauma. Others require medications or diets detrimental to dental health. Still other children have physical difficulty with effective dental habits at home. The good news is that dental disease is preventable. If dental care is started early and followed conscientiously, every child can enjoy a healthy smile.
Q Are pediatric dentists prepared to care for special children?
A: Absolutely. Pediatric dentists have two or more years of advanced training beyond dental school. Their education as specialists focuses on care for children with special needs. In addition, pediatric dental offices are designed to be physically accessible for special patients. Pediatric dentists, because of their expertise, are often the clinicians of choice for the dental care of adults with special needs as well.
Q Will my child need special care during dental treatment?
A: Some children need more support than a gentle, caring manner to feel comfortable during dental treatment. Restraint or mild sedation may benefit your special child. If a child needs extensive treatment, the pediatric dentist may provide care at a local hospital. Your pediatric dentist has a comprehensive education in behavior management, sedation and anesthesia techniques. He or she will select a technique based on the specific health needs of your child, then discuss the benefits, limits, and risks of that technique with you.
