Intellectual Disabilities Dentistry

Oral Care For Patients With Intellectual Disabilities

Many people with intellectual disabilities are put at risk when it comes to their oral health, as there tends to be a lack of communication with dentists, as well as a lack of understanding about the needs of that patient.

For many patients with intellectual disabilities in St. Louis, not being able to understand the importance of prioritization of oral care can lead to difficulties down the road. For parents or caregivers, trying to get someone to maintain a healthy daily routine or even cooperate with oral care can be incredibly painstaking.

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The Dental Anesthesia Center: Sedation and Sleep Dentistry4.9

Based on 201 reviews

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Jen M.

My sweet daughter has Autism, and was unable to work with a typical dentist. She must be sedated for dental cleanings, which can be scary for both of us. The team here is always very warm and understanding. They’re patient and willing to help us when she is struggling. Dr. Thoms is so helpful and kind. We’ve seen him for several years now, and I trust him and his team completely. Thank you!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and trust in our team over the years. We’re so grateful to be part of your family’s care and truly appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to our team!

Bill D.

I am so impressed with this Place. The staff is super friendly and explains everything in great detail and really takes their time with their patients. I came here after 15+ years of not having Dental insurance or the means to see a Dentist. Needless to say, my teeth were in pretty bad shape, and I needed a deep periodontal cleaning. When I went in for consultation back in February I was totally nervous, anxious had no clue what to expect. I just knew that I needed to a tooth that was falling out pulled and needed to do something about my teeth. After talking with a staff member and Dr. Hoffmann I felt totally at ease. Both my procedures in Feb and May went incredibly well and I woke up from both with an incredible smile. I came back today for follow up and cleaning my Hygienist was awesome I still had some sensitivity around my front teeth and when she noticed I flinched she stopped and said do you need break, or do you want me to put some numbing jell on your front teeth. After we got done, I had a lot of questions about the proper way to floss, what type of tooth paste I should use for sensitive teeth etc and she really took the time to answer all my questions. If you have been putting off dental work because of anxiety, I encourage you to check this place out. The staff truly cares about their clients.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your thoughtful review and kind words. We’re so glad you felt informed, supported, and cared for throughout your visits. Helping patients feel comfortable and confident in their dental care means so much to our team. We truly appreciate your trust!

Rob G.

I went to nervous and 3 to 4 hours later, I essentially woke up in the car on my way home without realizing anything had happened. If you have trauma with previous dental issues, this is the place.

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your experience. We’re grateful our team could help provide a comfortable experience and appreciate your trust in us.

R V.

Amazing staff from entering to exiting! Thank you all for truly caring and taking the time to explain every step as you go. You are appreciated and I would highly recommend you to everyone!

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and recommendation! We’re so glad you felt cared for and informed throughout your experience. Our team truly appreciates your support!

Cheryle

Extremely friendly and professional Liked the way everything was explained a b d was concerned about my comfort k rt

Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind review! We’re so glad you felt comfortable and well informed during your visit. Our team truly appreciates your support!

People with special needs and intellectual disabilities tend to become much more anxious when they know that they need to go to the dentist. For many patients, it can be as simple as knowing how to provide the correct reassurance to get them here safely and willingly.

Of course, some have more severe disabilities or medical problems, and many of those people require a bit of extra care or precaution.

Providing Better Oral Care For People With Intellectual Disabilities

Though it is a dentist’s job to provide the ultimate form of oral care, the path to a healthy mouth starts at home. As a parent or caregiver of someone with intellectual disabilities, there are several things that you can do to jumpstart that path.

As a parent or caregiver, you probably understand that people with intellectual learning disabilities often have a hard time expressing pain or discomfort in a way we understand. As a parent or caregiver to an individual, you must be aware of those changes in behavior that indicate illness, pain, or discomfort and be willing to share them with your dental provider.

Depending on their needs, some patients may need to be seen at specific times of the day. For patients who tend to tire or have strong anxiety, appointments in the evening may not be the best choice. Many patients with intellectual disabilities rely heavily on routines, and those who are planning on having regular appointments may need them all to be at the same time.

In many cases, people with intellectual disabilities have trouble getting proper oral health care when compared to the rest of the population. Because they don’t see the dentist as often, these oral health problems can begin to affect their overall health and wellness.

This is why it is so important for caregivers to prioritize oral health and learn how to adapt and create good routines for it so that bigger problems can be avoided down the road.

Making Your Appointment

When treating patients with intellectual disabilities in St. Louis, MO, the Dental Anesthesia Center is one of the top facilities. We use cutting-edge technology alongside sleep and sedation dentistry in many cases. Our team of dentists is well-trained and equipped to handle any patient, especially those with intellectual disabilities.

Putting off oral care due to the fear or anxiety of visiting the dentist will only be detrimental to that individual. Having a healthy mouth is vital to an individual’s well-being, and having routine checkups is important for maintaining that.

Call us at (314) 862-7844 to schedule your first appointment. We look forward to meeting you!