Tips of the Day - Dentist Visits

• A pediatric dentist usually has the most experience with children with developmental delays.
• Bring your child’s favorite DVD to his dental visit.
• Bring some of your child’s favorite toys to medical and dental exams.
• Have your child help the dentist count his teeth.
• The first time your child has a dental cleaning, ask your dentist about giving him a mild sedative until he gets used to the routine.
• Stay in the treatment room to help the dentist by keeping your child’s hands away from the dentist and the instruments in your child’s mouth.
• Give the dentist an opportunity to talk to your child; she may be more cooperative with a friendly dentist.
• Check if insurance will cover your child’s dental surgery in the hospital under general anesthesia; insurance will usually pay if the dentist submits a letter of medical necessity.

_{*Tips taken from "The Child with Autism Series" by Kathy Labosh}