Essential Pediatric Dental Care for Kids with Cerebral Palsy
For kids living with cerebral palsy, oral health can sometimes become an afterthought due to the medical concerns they may deal with on a daily basis. But everyone needs healthy teeth and gums for overall wellness, and people with cerebral palsy are actually more susceptible to dental issues than the average person.
Despite the extra challenges they might face, it is possible for kids with cerebral palsy to maintain healthy teeth and gums through a diligent at-home oral hygiene routine and regular dental checkups by a specialist dentist for children with cerebral palsy.
Cerebral Palsy & Oral Health
Cerebral Palsy is a neurological disorder that affects the development of movement and posture in children, and while the condition itself does not cause oral abnormalities, many of its symptoms can lead to oral problems.
Kids with cerebral palsy often have weak muscle tone around the mouth which impacts their ability to chew and swallow. They are also prone to abnormal teeth alignment and may experience frequent gastrointestinal reflux and drooling, which makes them more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease.
Other issues that increase the risk of developing oral problems in kids with cerebral palsy include:
- Taking medications with high amounts of sugar
- Lack of control using a toothbrush or floss
- Excessive gagging
- Lip, tongue, and cheek biting
Children with cerebral palsy typically struggle to clean their own teeth due to movement limitations and jaw muscles that cannot easily relax. This often makes special needs dentistry for kids with cerebral palsy extremely important.
Pediatric Dentistry for Kids with Cerebral
Palsy
Parents and caregivers of children with cerebral palsy may be hesitant to take their little one into the dentist’s office because of their symptoms, but pediatric dentists are specially trained to care for children with special needs, including cerebral palsy.
Pediatric dentists are required to go through special training so they can safely work with patients with special needs. This typically includes CPR certification, monitoring for breathing issues, and supporting kids who experience shaking and involuntary movements.
Pediatric dentists also typically offer gentle sedation dentistry for patients with cerebral palsy. This can help patients relax and feel comfortable during routine cleanings or more complex procedures.
Learn More About Pediatric Dentistry For Cerebral Palsy in Reno
For the community in the Reno, Nevada area, we provide specialized pediatric dental services for children with cerebral palsy at six convenient locations.
Every year, our dentists and staff care for hundreds of children with special needs, making us a trusted choice for pediatric dentistry in the greater Reno area.
Whether your child has Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, severe ADHD, or another condition, our team is trained to ensure their comfort and safety.
If your child requires additional care due to a specific condition, we offer gentle sedation options, including mild sedatives and general anesthesia, to keep them calm and secure during treatment.
