Cerebral Palsy Dentist

Oral Health And Cerebral Palsy

Many symptoms of cerebral palsy can put patients at greater risk of dental issues, even though cerebral palsy itself is not the cause of oral abnormalities or deformities. However, if a patient with cerebral palsy diligently gets their dental checkups, maintaining positive oral health is 100% possible.

Here at the Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we specialize in special needs dentistry, helping patients of all kinds achieve the best possible oral health.

Call (314) 862-7844

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Excellent

The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry4.9

Based on 229 reviews

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Jyllyan T.

Today was the second time that I became a registered patient with this office. I had previously had work done in the past with a different clinician, paused treatment for some time, and then returned today and was put with a new physician. I cannot even begin to describe the comfortability that I had with my dental anxiety after leaving the office. The new physician that I met with took over an hour to sit with me and go over my concerns, history, present scans, and any questions about the treatment plan moving forward that I had. She was optimistic, kind, compassionate, and most importantly, there for me in every aspect that a patient requires. She made me hopeful about any future needs I might encounter, and I would truly recommend this office yet again to anyone. They continue to find the kindest staff to support them as well, making it a well-rounded practice from start to finish.

Corey W.

All three doctors are nice to get over your fear of dentist.Thank you Dr. Hoffmann and team!

Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5-star review! We truly appreciate your kind words and support.

Mary Lea B.

Carrie and Dr B are awesome!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’ll be sure to share your compliments with Carrie and Dr. Behl.

suzanne

I cannot say enough about Dr. Hoffmann and his incredible staff. I never thought for a second that I would not be terrified to go to the dentist for the rest of my life, but Dr. Hoffmann changed that. I have had extensive work done over the last few months, all pain free. I was missing teeth due to a decades old bridge falling out and Dr. Hoffman made sure I had a beautiful smile in time for my daughter’s wedding. I have never experienced a kinder more compassionate team, when you go, you know you are in good hands. There is more work to be done, but I am no longer afraid, at all. Thank you Dr. Hoffmann, and thank you to your team. You’ve changed my life.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your incredibly thoughtful review. Your kind words truly touched all of us. It means so much to know that our focus on compassionate, gentle care and making people feel comfortable is making a difference. Dr. Hoffmann and our entire team are grateful for your trust and for taking the time to share such a heartfelt message. We appreciate you more than you know and wish you all the very best!

I H.

I was terrified of the dentist and had not gone in years. I’m so glad I found Dr Hoffmann. I now can go to the dentist and am not scared to death. He is so kind. So gentle. I’m so grateful!

Response from the owner:Thanks for your kind words! We're so glad you had a positive experience with our team. Providing compassionate, comfortable care is always our goal. We truly appreciate your support!

Why Are Patients With Cerebral Palsy At Greater Risk For Oral Health Problems?

Many cerebral palsy patients tend to have gastrointestinal reflux, which can lead them to vomit or reflux regularly. Some patients tend to have more problems with drooling, which can also increase the risk of dental issues. In other cases, the medication that is taken by cerebral palsy patients contains high sugar percentages, which can be bad for oral health.

When you think about all of these factors combined, people who have cerebral palsy are much of the time at greater risk for oral health problems such as tooth decay. Of course, there are many other issues that cerebral palsy patients tend to have as well, including:

• Lack of control when brushing or flossing teeth
• Difficulty chewing and swallowing
• Excessive gagging
• Misaligned upper and lower teeth
• Lip, tongue, and cheek biting
• Gingivitis, which is typically a side effect of seizure medications

Many patients with cerebral palsy, especially young children, have trouble cleaning their teeth independently. This is due to an inability to relax their jaw muscles. Obstacles to brushing can include mouth and tongue sensitivity and lack of control.

Dental Treatment For Patients With Cerebral Palsy

Patients with cerebral palsy in St. Louis may be more hesitant about visiting the dentist for fear that the visit might go poorly. This is especially true with parents who have young children with cerebral palsy. Luckily, we have Dr. Hoffman and Dr. Thoms on our team, each specializing in working with various patients, including those with cerebral palsy.

Our office is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. We can accommodate patients with wheelchairs of all sizes.

Our dentists and team have also been trained to properly monitor breathing, which is a must for children or adults who may have difficulty communicating or expressing when they are feeling pain or discomfort. Our dentists understand how to establish relationships with all of our patients, give understandable yet friendly commands, and communicate effectively in a nonverbal manner if necessary.

At-Home Oral Care

Beyond coming in for regular checkups or urgent procedures, you must have an oral routine at home for you or your loved one. Patients with cerebral palsy should have these things for a successful at-home oral care routine:

• Toothbrushes or floss that is easy to use (we recommend electric toothbrushes or toothpick floss sticks if possible)
• Toothpaste meant for sensitive gums and teeth

Making Your First Appointment

Did you know that children with cerebral palsy are far less likely to receive proper oral care when compared to other children with Special Needs? In a recent study, 40% of children without disabilities have regular dental visits, while only 23% of children with cerebral palsy have dental visits at all.

It is important not to neglect your or your child’s oral health due to the fear of a dental visit not going well. Our goal is to customize and make all dental visits customized and comfortable for every type of patient. That is why we are highly regarded as the best special needs sleep and sedation dentist in St. Louis.

We hope you will call us at (314) 862-7844 to schedule your first appointment. We are known for having the best cerebral palsy dentistry in St. Louis. We look forward to meeting and working with you!