Special Needs Patients

Finding a dentist for your child with special needs can be difficult. As a parent you want the best and safest care for your child. Dr. Hanway’s received superior training at UF that allows her to offer treatments to little ones with a variety of special needs.

Oral Health Tailored For All Needs

Dr. Shawn’s training at UF including treating patients along the wide spectrum of autism, unique syndromes, complex medical histories, immunocompromised, wheelchair bound, and children with craniofacial anomalies. Please let us know on the phone ahead of time any tips to help the appointment go smoothly (1st appointments of the day, fears the child has or past experiences) and you can help us by bringing an updated list of medications, consults from physicians and phone numbers of specialists they see.

Teeth Brushing

Brushing can be a fight for a child with special needs, especially those with oral aversions. Often we recommend a 3-sided toothbrush to make it easier for the caregiver to make sure they are cleaning a surfaces of the teeth. This helps brushing get done faster for overly-sensitive kids and adults.

Resources

My Visit To The Dentist Childrens Flyer

Read this social story with your child to learn the routine. Your child may also read the story independently.

Desensitization exercises should be done at least 2-3 times every day. Always use a gentle but firm touch.
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