Special Needs Dentistry for Kids in Urbana & Frederick County, MD

What Every Parent Should Know

By Dr. Dina Chehab, DDS, MS

Board‑Certified Pediatric Dentist | Urbana Pediatric Dentistry

Peace. Love. Teeth.

Every child deserves a dental home where they feel safe, understood, and celebrated—especially children with special health care needs. As a board‑certified pediatric dentist with advanced training at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, I’ve had the privilege of caring for children with a wide range of medical, developmental, sensory, and behavioral differences.

At Urbana Pediatric Dentistry in Ijamsville, Maryland, we provide compassionate, individualized dental care for children with special needs, serving families throughout Urbana, Frederick, and surrounding communities. My team and I take the time to meet each child where they are—because positive dental experiences matter.

Quick Answers for Parents

• What is special needs pediatric dentistry? Dental care tailored to children with medical, developmental, sensory, or behavioral conditions.

• Who provides this care? A board‑certified pediatric dentist with additional training in child development and special health care needs.

• Is sedation always required? No. Many children do beautifully with patience, preparation, and sensory‑friendly strategies.

• Can my child be seen safely? Yes. Care is always individualized and coordinated with your child’s medical team when needed.

What Is Special Needs Dentistry for Kids?

Special needs dentistry for kids focuses on providing gentle, customized oral health care for children who may have:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

• Down syndrome

• Cerebral palsy

• ADHD

• Craniofacial differences

• Genetic or neuromuscular conditions

• Complex medical histories (including cancer or cardiac conditions)

• Sensory processing differences or dental anxiety

These children may face additional challenges with oral hygiene, cooperation, muscle coordination, or medication side effects—making specialized dental care essential.

Why Oral Health Can Be More Challenging for Children with Special Needs

Some children are at higher risk for cavities and gum disease due to:

• Limited motor skills that make brushing difficult

• Oral sensitivities or aversions

• Medications that cause dry mouth or gum overgrowth

• Delayed tooth eruption or bite differences

• Dietary or feeding challenges

This is why early, preventive dental care and consistent follow‑up are so important.

How to Choose the Right Special Needs Pediatric Dentist

When searching for a dentist for your child, look for:

• Board certification in pediatric dentistry

• Experience treating children with similar needs

• A calm, sensory‑aware office environment

• Flexible appointment scheduling

• Clear, compassionate communication

• Access to comfort and sedation options when appropriate

At Urbana Pediatric Dentistry, our team is trained to support children with a wide range of abilities—always with kindness, patience, and respect.

Preparing Your Child for Their Dental Visit

Preparation can make all the difference. We often recommend:

• Scheduling a pre‑visit office tour

• Sharing your child’s medical history and triggers in advance

• Using visual schedules or social stories

• Practicing “open wide” or tooth brushing at home

• Bringing a favorite comfort item

What to Expect at Urbana Pediatric Dentistry

Our office was designed to feel warm, calm, and welcoming—not clinical or overwhelming.

During your child’s visit, we may use:

• Gentle lighting and reduced noise

• Clear, simple explanations (“tell‑show‑do”)

• Positive reinforcement and praise

• Sensory tools like fidgets or headphones

• Extra time and breaks as needed

• Visits with Teddi, our therapy dog, when appropriate 🐾

Every child’s visit is tailored to their comfort level and needs.

Comfort & Treatment Options

Depending on your child’s needs, we may recommend:

• Desensitization and gradual visits

• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)

• Conscious sedation

• Protective stabilization (when medically necessary)

• Hospital‑based general anesthesia (for select cases)

We always discuss options thoroughly and prioritize safety, dignity, and trust.

Helping at Home: Simple Tips for Parents

• Use adaptive toothbrushes or electric brushes

• Try brushing at different times of day if evenings are tough

• Break oral care into short, manageable steps

• Celebrate effort—not perfection

Small wins matter!

You’re Not Alone—We’re Here to Help

Special needs dentistry is about more than teeth. It’s about connection, patience, and advocacy.

At Urbana Pediatric Dentistry, we are honored to be a trusted dental home for families throughout Ijamsville, Urbana, and Frederick County, MD. If you have questions or would like to schedule a visit, our team is always here to support you.

👉 Helpful resources for families:

• First Visit

• Financial Information

• Emergency Dental Care

FAQs

What type of dentist treats children with special needs?

A pediatric dentist completes at least two additional years of specialty training focused on children’s development, behavior, and complex medical needs.

How do dentists care for children with autism?

Care may include desensitization, visual supports, sensory accommodations, and—when appropriate—nitrous oxide or sedation. Many children do very well without sedation.

Why is special needs dentistry important?

It ensures equal access to oral health care and helps prevent pain, infection, and dental emergencies in vulnerable populations.

What barriers do families face in accessing dental care?

Transportation challenges, limited providers, cost concerns, and lack of specialized training can all make access difficult—especially for medically complex children.