At Irvine Orthodontics, we cater to our patients’ individual needs. Patients with autism and other special needs, conditions and disabilities are welcome, and although most parents are well-versed in their child's condition and special needs, we at Irvine Orthodontics take our cues from the parents of autistic children. Basically - look the child in the eye when you speak to them and smile. Give them much positive reinforcement. Include parents in your discussions. Tell, show, do for all of your child patients, especially the special needs patients, i.e. you let them know that you will touch their cheek to stretch it so that you can look at their teeth; show them your fingers or mirror and then touch them lightly to stretch them out, etc. We also see our special needs children during the morning and early afternoon - never in the late afternoon when the office is very busy and hectic. Most times, we have a private room for them as well. We dedicate one (and sometimes two) assistants to spend the entire time with the patient (which means we schedule more time for them) - so that the child never feels abandoned. Lastly, we never go beyond 1 hour for the treatment time (and for some children the time is only 30 minutes) - so that no one is stressed beyond their capabilities.
We ask that parents be positive about visiting the orthodontist and not to say too much about the procedure, "tools," or anything that might make their child anxious. A good questions to ask before an initial orthodontic evaluation is to inquire when the most appropriate age for orthodontic treatment is. A good question to ask before any treatment procedure is if their child will need Tylenol or Motrin and what will transpire at today's appointment. During the treatment any question pertaining to their child and their treatment is appropriate.
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