Special health care needs are any physical, developmental, mental, sensory, behavioral, cognitive, or emotional impairment or limiting condition that requires medical management, health care intervention, and/or use of specialized services or programs. Health care for individuals with special needs requires specialized knowledge, increased awareness and attention, adaptation, and accommodative measures beyond what are considered routine.
Oral health is a vital part of general health and overall well-being. Children with special health care needs are at increased risk for oral diseases. These diseases can have a direct and devastating impact on the health of children with certain health problems or conditions.
When scheduling appointments, please let our staff know if your child has a special health care need and give us the name of your child’s medical care provider. Our office staff, under the guidance of Dr. Pacella, can then determine if your child will need a longer appointment and/or additional staff. Our goal is to accommodate you and your child in the most effective and efficient manner possible while keeping him or her comfortable and at ease.
Patients with special health care needs who see Dr. Pacella on a regular basis will receive appropriate preventive and routine care. We will work out a plan with you and your child for the best way to take care of his or her oral health to prevent dental/oral disease.
Because cooperating during dental treatments can be a challenge and a safety issue for many children with special health care needs, Dr. Pacella offers IV inhalation or IV sedation. Dr. Pacella will be happy to discuss this with you.
