Dental appointments can cause stress and anxiety for some patients but tend to be especially challenging for those with special needs. Certain types of underlying health conditions or disabilities can make it more difficult for patients to tolerate dental work. Special needs dentistry utilizes various methods to help patients relax and feel calm while undergoing dental procedures. Dr. Nidhi Sikka and the dental team at Sikka Dental in San Jose are experienced providers of special needs dentistry.
Special Needs Dentistry
Having special needs can potentially interfere with a patient’s ability to undergo essential or dental work. Even a routine checkup with teeth cleaning can be challenging. For some patients, the experience can cause extensive stress and anxiety. For others, a dental setting can cause physical discomfort due to a health condition. For example, patients with asthma could potentially experience difficulty breathing during a dental exam. Special needs dentistry makes it possible for anyone to receive the essential dental care they need for optimal oral health.
At our family dental practice in San Jose, we specialize in special needs dentistry. Our team of dental professionals, led by Dr. Sikka, has the skills, training, and experience to deliver exceptional oral health services to all types of patients, including those with special needs. We can accommodate a wide range of individual needs and always treat all our patients in a friendly, gentle, sensitive, and caring manner.
Special needs dentistry can benefit patients with various conditions or concerns, including:
- ADHD
- Autism
- Epilepsy
- Down Syndrome
- Cerebral Palsy
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Mental challenges
- Dental anxiety
Hospital and Sedation Dentistry
Depending on the specific needs of the patient, either hospital or sedation dentistry methods can be incorporated as part of special needs dentistry. Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedatives to reduce anxiety and help patients relax during dental procedures. Different types of sedatives can be used, such as a nitrous oxide or laughing gas. For some patients, full IV sedation is the best option.
Hospital dentistry involves performing dental work in a hospital setting where it is possible to utilize greater sedation options so that patients can sleep through their procedures. Hospital dentistry can benefit patients with severe dental anxiety who need extensive dental work, as well as patients with certain disabilities, behavioral disorders, or other conditions.
Our skilled and nurturing dental team can accommodate patients with a board range of special needs. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sikka for special needs dentistry, call Sikka Dental in San Jose at (408) 259-1280.
