It’s no secret that most people do not enjoy going to the dentist, some people do, but most are reluctant and hesitant. This is likely a bigger problem for someone with special needs because they likely have all the fears and anxieties the average person does in addition to all of their special needs concerns. The good news is that our special needs dentist in East Grand Rapids, MI, is ready to help.
What is Special Needs Dentistry?
You may think special needs refers to anyone with a mental disability or illness and it includes them but also anyone who needs an alternative approach to traditional dentistry. Special needs patients don’t always require extra care, but sometimes just different care.
People with autism are far more likely to encounter setbacks to getting the dental care they need due to their aversion to change.
The Challenge of Change
Few people like change to begin with, but people with autism have a special distaste for change. One major reason people don’t like the dentist is they feel out of control and when people don’t feel like they’re in control they have a tendency to try and regain control or shut down completely.
For people with developmental disabilities/delays and those with social problems, this can lead to accidental consequences in the short term with potentially long-term effects. This is why going to a dentist with experience treating patients with special needs is so important so they can get the care they need.
The near constant change in today’s fast-paced world often overwhelms and over-stimulates people with autism and this is why they have a more difficult time adjusting to change.
Dr. Elias’s Background
Dr. Elias and his team currently treat numerous patients of all ages with autism. They are easy-going, patient, and understanding when it comes to accommodating someone’s disability. Through years of experience working with special needs patients and their families, Elias Dental has made significant advancements in the area of special needs care.
Dr. Elias has been the president of the Autism Support of Kent County (ASK) since 2007. His wife Amy, and children Jake, Luke, and Peter are all active members of Autism support, making Kent County more knowledgeable and supportive of autism.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry involves taking a sedative to relieve anxiety which will better enable the dentist to provide care. Special needs dentistry doesn’t always include sedation, but it is especially effective when someone has immense anxiety and other methods meant to relax them aren’t working.
Laughing gas is the most common, but there are three other types of sedation dentistry: intravenous, general anesthesia, and oral sedation.
If you are unsure about sedation dentistry, we encourage you to talk with our dentist to see what options are available to make the appointment the most comfortable and relaxing for you or your special needs child.
Schedule an Appointment
Our special needs dentist in East Grand Rapids, MI, is accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, please call the dental office of Richard Elias III DDS at (616) 458-2048. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our team will reach out to you soon.
