Dental care is a crucial aspect of maintaining a child’s overall health, including for children with special needs. Good oral health contributes not only to physical well-being but also to a child’s mental and emotional health. Awareness of the importance of dental care for children with special needs is growing across institutions, including Universitas Gadjah Mada’s Faculty of Dentistry (FKG UGM), which has initiated programs to support the oral health of these children.
Why Is Dental Care Important?
- Overall Health: Poor oral health can affect overall health. Dental and gum infections can lead to serious health problems, especially for children with certain medical conditions.
- Supports Good Nutrition: Children with special needs often have dietary limitations due to chewing or swallowing difficulties. Good oral health helps them chew food more efficiently, which is vital for their growth and development.
- Quality of Life and Confidence: Dental and oral issues, such as cavities or bad breath, can affect a child’s self-confidence. Children with healthy teeth are generally more comfortable interacting with peers and society.
- Prevention of More Serious Problems: Children with special needs often have a higher risk of dental problems, such as cavities, bleeding gums, or malocclusion. Regular dental care helps detect and prevent these issues before they worsen.
FKG UGM’s Program for Children with Special Needs
FKG UGM has taken proactive steps to improve oral health of children with special needs through child-friendly dental clinics. These initiatives aim to provide safe, comfortable, and inclusive dental care. Some of their approaches include:
- Child-Friendly Dental Clinics: Creating a supportive environment that makes dental visits more enjoyable and reduces anxiety for children with special needs.
- Training for Medical Staff: FKG UGM’s dental team is trained to interact sensitively and effectively with children with special needs, understanding their unique challenges.
- Education for Families: FKG UGM is also committed to educating parents and caregivers about the importance of dental care and how to maintain their child’s oral health at home.
Challenges in Dental Care
Children with special needs often face several challenges in assessing proper dental care, including:
- Sensory Sensitivities: Many children with special needs may have sensitivities to sensory stimuli. The process of dental examination and treatment can cause anxiety or discomfort.
- Communication Issues: Children with communication disorders may have difficulty expressing pain or discomfort, making it essential for dentists to have the right approach and understand the child’s needs.
- Mobility Limitations: Some children may have physical limitations that make it difficult for them to sit still during dental procedures.
Solutions for Effective Dental Care
- Multidisciplinary Approach: Utilizing a team of dentists, pediatricians, occupational therapists, and behavioral specialists can help understand the specific needs of the child and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
- Child-Friendly Environment: Dental practices designed specifically for children with special needs often create a calmer and more pleasant atmosphere, incorporating toys and visual aids to reduce anxiety.
- Education for Parents and Caregivers: Providing education to parents about the importance of dental care and home dental hygiene techniques can help maintain the child’s oral health effectively.
- Appropriate Use of Anesthesia: In some cases, the use of local anesthesia or sedation can help childen who are extremely anxious or fearful during dental treatment.
- Preventive Care Plan: Encouraging regular dental check-ups and fluoride applications can help prevent dental problems before they occur.
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Dental care for children with special needs is crucial and should not be overlooked. With proactive initiatives such as programs implemented by FKG UGM, challenges can be addressed to ensure that these children receive the dental care they need to achieve optimal oral health. Education, support, and a child-friendly environment can help ensure that all children, regardless of their special needs, have access to quality dental care. Good oral health contributes to a better quality of life for them. This initiative also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, and Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Author : Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
