Special Needs Dentistry - Fort Wayne & Auburn, IN

Gentle and Patient-Focused Dentistry for Special Needs Patients

doctor working with special needs patient

Top-Quality Dental Care for Patients with Special Needs

At Sedation & Implant Dentistry, patient comfort and clinical excellence have always been among our top priorities. IV sedation in Fort Wayne, IN, and Auburn, IN, soothing colors, and an empathetic and compassionate approach to dentistry help our team fulfill that goal.

We understand it’s common for patients with physical, developmental, mental, sensory, behavioral, cognitive, or emotional impairments to have greater oral health challenges and anxiety. The right sedation and pain intervention techniques, a compassionate touch, open communication, and a Tell-Show-Do approach enhance our ability to deliver top-quality, timely, and considerate dental care to patients with special needs.

Dr. David Painter

The Unique Oral Health Challenges of Special Needs Patients

Special needs patients frequently have difficulty achieving, maintaining, or accessing oral health services because of their disability or medical condition. Maxillofacial birth defects can cause severe orthodontic issues, while cavities and periodontal disease are often related to inadequate oral hygiene. People with Down syndrome develop rapid, destructive gum disease as children due to poor oral hygiene, malocclusion, bruxism, and a compromised immune system.

As such, loss of permanent front teeth by their early teens is quite common. Periodontal disease is also common in people with cerebral palsy due to poor oral hygiene, physical limitations, malocclusion, and gingival changes caused by medications. In addition, individuals with cognitive or emotional impairments may have difficulty understanding what is expected during dental treatment and/or be unable to sit still in the dental chair.

The Journey to Better Oral Health Begins with a Consultation

At Sedation & Implant Dentistry, we treat every patient with respect, dignity, and empathy. We involve the entire dental team—from our receptionist to dental assistants and hygienists. Before considering sedation dentistry, a consultation in Fort Wayne, IN, or Auburn, IN, is scheduled to determine the most optimal method for the individual based on the following criteria:

Dr. David Painter
iv sedation

What to Expect from Our Sedation Process

We offer dental anesthesiologist appointments once or twice a month, reserved for our special needs patients. Depending on the type of dental care required, sedation is administered by our skilled and IV sedation-certified dentist, Dr. David Painter, or a dental anesthesiologist. Rest assured, Dr. Painter’s calm chairside manner, combined with safe and effective IV sedation, eases the minds of special needs patients and their caregivers alike!

Benefits of Sedation Dentistry for Special Needs Patients

Experience a Unique Approach to Dental Care!

Schedule a specialized visit with our caring team.