A Closer Look at Special Needs Dentistry

Every patient is unique. When it comes to dental care, it’s important to recognize that an approach to treatment that works well for one person might not be helpful for another. 

At the dental practice of Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, we offer special needs dentistry attuned to the needs of children and adults who might struggle to sit still for routine dental treatments. Our patient-centric approach helps patients and their caregivers feel more comfortable and confident about their dental care.

Understanding special needs dentistry

Special needs dentistry is dental treatment delivered with a strong foundation of trust, compassion, and understanding. With our special needs dentistry services, we strive to create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcomed, safe, and cared for. 

We tailor care for patients with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities, such as:

• Autism
• Down syndrome
• Learning disabilities
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neuromuscular disorders, like cerebral palsy
• Behavioral disorders
• Mental disorders
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Parkinson’s disease 

If you don’t see a certain condition or situation on this list, don’t worry: This is merely a general list of examples. We offer caring support and expert dental care for all children and adults who have special needs. 

Dr. Wilmore is one of a select few dentists in the Houston area offering special needs dentistry across the entire patient lifespan.

Why special needs dentistry matters 

Special needs dentistry isn’t just about treating teeth — it’s about providing compassionate care that respects the whole person. 

Many patients with special needs face obstacles that make routine dental care difficult, such as sensory issues, mobility issues, or behavioral challenges. Over time, a lack of routine dental care can lead to cavities, periodontal disease, and other serious problems like tooth loss. 

Dr. Wilmore and our caring team make it easier to get both routine and advanced dental care. We create an environment in which patients comfortably get the treatments they need now so they don’t have to deal with a dental crisis later. 

Creating comfortable experiences for special needs patients 

We know that visiting the dentist can be stressful for anyone, even under the best of circumstances. For special needs patients, the anxiety and fear can be greatly elevated. Our team understands this, and we go out of our way to create a calming atmosphere. 

We adjust lighting, minimize dental noise, offer noise-blockers like headphones, and take the time to establish a rapport with every patient. In addition, we offer a range of dental sedation options, like nitrous oxide, to make every experience comfortable. 

Promoting lifelong good oral health 

We help patients and their caregivers understand and implement at-home dental care techniques that work. Dr. Wilmore and our team teach brushing and flossing techniques, provide tips about monitoring oral health at home, and even offer advice on diet and lifestyle methods of maintaining ideal oral health. 

We also provide resources for patients with unique challenges in maintaining oral hygiene, such as adaptive equipment recommendations and specialized care plans.

We’re your partner in special needs dentistry 

The team at Heather M. Wilmore, DDS, is here to break down barriers and help our special needs patients get exactly what they need. Schedule an appointment online or call our office at 713-266-4222 today.