A cerebral palsy is a group of disorders affecting control over movement. Many people with cerebral palsy develop poor dental care habits and oral health because of difficulty controlling reflexes, coordination, and posture, which is caused by the condition. Our Phoenix dentist for Cerebral Palsy at Dental on Central focuses on providing special needs dentistry, including to patients living with cerebral palsy and other developmental delays.
The high-quality dental care we deliver is motivated by compassion, and the goal for patients to feel comfortable. Call (602) 266-1776 to speak with our office staff today so we may answer any questions you have and schedule an appointment.
Having cerebral palsy and maintaining oral health can be difficult to achieve. The physical act of brushing teeth is far from easy for patients to do. Restricted facial movements, trouble with keeping the mouth open, staying still, fighting a gag reflex, biting and tongue thrusts, make the task especially challenging. Oftentimes, those living with cerebral palsy will delay the dental care they need or forego the dentist altogether.
The issue is, procrastinating on minor oral health problems can later lead to serious complications. Common dental problems of cerebral palsy patients include:
When overactive reflexes and lack of muscle control make dental treatment uncomfortable and exceedingly difficult, patients have the ability to choose a sedation technique. Sedation will help calm the body and get rid of anxiety, allowing for a safe and relaxing dental visit. That way, when cerebral palsy patients are in need of multiple procedures, dental specialists will most likely be able to complete them in one visit.
Examples of dental treatments we commonly provide include:
Parents and caregivers for children with cerebral palsy may be more hesitant in taking them in for dental care, especially if their kids have issues with biting, chewing, or swallowing. However, dentists who specialize in working with children with special needs have a unique skillset, often as a result of the required training. Mandatory safety training is required, that includes CPR certification, learning how to clear breathing passages, how to support children who have involuntarily body movements and shake, and how to properly monitor breathing. In addition, dental specialists who treat cerebral palsy patients will often work to accommodate the patient, including providing easy access for patients in wheelchairs.
Our team of Phoenix dentists for cerebral palsy have the necessary experience and training to assist adults and children with cerebral palsy. Even when patients have difficulty and challenges communicating pain and discomfort, our safety training will ensure they are given appropriate and quality dental care. We want our patients to feel secure and comfortable with the treatment they receive. To discuss treatment and make an appointment, reach us online or call us at (602) 266-1776.