Hospital dentistry is a branch of dentistry for treating patients in a hospital setting who have special concerns or needs, such as severe 
anxiety, autism, behavioral disorders, or certain medical disorders. Hospital dentistry makes it possible to use general anesthesia so patients can sleep through whatever dental procedures are needed. Anxiety, pain, and discomfort can all be avoided through hospital dentistry. At South Miami Pediatric Dental Associates, Dr. Mario Martinez and Dr. Rebecca Lenard are your pediatric dentists for hospital dentistry in South Miami, FL.
When Hospital Dentistry is Needed
Children and other patients with certain medical conditions or special needs are often able to benefit from hospital dentistry, which can help them feel more comfortable and secure than in a traditional dental practice setting. In South Miami, hospital dentistry is available for patients with the following conditions or concerns:
- Autism
- Severe anxiety
- Special needs
- Behavioral disorders
- Certain medical disorders
- Impairments in physical mobility
- Cerebral Palsy
- Down Syndrome
Hospital dentistry is also beneficial for patients requiring extensive dental procedures, particularly in the case of children. Performing extensive dental work in a hospital setting makes it possible to administer general anesthesia so children can sleep through treatment. Sleeping through extensive dental treatment eliminates any anxiety, pain, or discomfort a child would otherwise experience during the necessary procedures.
Your child’s pediatric dentist can determine if hospital dentistry is appropriate for your child. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has developed the Frankl Behavioral Rating Scale, which helps pediatric dentists assess a child’s level of cooperation with regard to dental treatment. Children who show signs of being uncooperative or even refuse treatment might benefit from hospital dentistry. Your child’s dentist can discuss the possibility of hospital treatment with you if your child is highly resistant to dental treatment or has special needs.
Hospital dentistry is an alternative for treating patients who have severe anxiety, special needs, or a specific condition that would make it challenging to perform important dental work. To learn more about hospital dentistry in South Miami and whether it is right for your child, schedule an appointment with Dr. Martinez or Dr. Lenard by calling South Miami Pediatric Dental Associates at (305) 666-2068.