Why I Offer Special Needs Dentistry

 

 

I believe that everyone should be able to receive quality dental care. However, many patients with special needs or their families, find it hard to get their dental concerns addressed. At Thurm Dental Group, we are kind, gentle, and treat all of our patients with dignity and respect.

Realizing I could help

 

Growing up, I always knew I wanted to get into the medical field in some capacity. Helping others came natural to me and I enjoyed problem-solving and science. As I narrowed down my career options, dentistry stuck out as a way I could be in the medical field helping others, have opportunities to tap into my creative side, and also balance my home life. In my years of training, I noticed a large gap in the treatment of patients with special needs. Most dentists didn’t have the confidence, equipment, or the patience to help people who couldn’t physically get into a dental chair, or easily follow instructions. Many patients with mental or physical handicaps would end up merely receiving the bare minimum in dental care, and / or referred to a hospital for treatment that can typically be completed in a dental office. This is why I decided to start a practice that would focus on meeting the needs of patients with disabilities. I had the heart for it so I set out to help.

 

Treating special needs patients with physical disabilities

 

We are wheelchair accessible and have the ability to smoothly transition patients from wheelchairs to dental chairs. Additionally, I am knowledgeable about specific limitations associated with certain conditions and know when I need to step in to lend a helping hand. I also strive to have a friendly rapport with my patients, making it easy to effectively communicate when I need to adjust their position, close their mouth, help them sit up or down, and more.

 

Treating patients with special needs

 

At Thurm Dental Group, I have lots of experience with patients dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia. I am very patient and make every effort to create a comfortable environment. We talk through treatments explaining every detail if that is what our patient desires. We listen to their concerns and address any issue they may have.

 

We offer IV sedation

 

If you or someone you care about may benefit from general anesthesia during their dental visit, we can accommodate. Many patients find general sedation dentistry to be the best way to get their dental needs taken care of in the most comfortable manner.  

If you have found it difficult to locate a dentist to accommodate special needs, we can help. Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art dental technology and we are eager to make your dental experience a successful one. For more information or if you have any questions about our treatment options, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office today.