Big Grins for Everyone

It is tempting to avoid the struggles that come with parenting.  We have our moments of putting things off, but it always comes back to bite you.  Putting off the dentist is one of those commonly done things, even for our kids.  Parent of sensitive kids can really struggle with this.  Our children are in need of good dental practices early in life to maintain a healthy mouth and attitude about dentistry, but how do we get passed the planning and organizing to get them there let alone our children’s fears and struggles?

Dr. Greg Evans of Big Grins sat down with me and discussed these concerns and more.  Dr. Greg runs a very kid centered Dental clinic in Fort Collins Colorado.  His aim is to get kids excited about coming to the dentist and learning good dental health habits from a very young age.  Big Grins starts seeing kids as early at toddlers, getting them in for a free screening and to get parents comfortable with the routines of dental care.  The staff at Big Grins sees kids of every ability and comfort level.  Dr. Greg suggests parents go to a dental office without an appointment to take a look around without being asked to test their sensory compatibility level.  Getting to see the rooms, equipment and staff can alleviate some anxiety about what to expect.  He knows kids will be curious and when given an opportunity to explore a new situation on their terms gives them a sense of control and partnership in their health.

“ The very nature of the dental visit is difficult . . .the disruption of a schedule, the unfamiliar noises and interactions with new children, the intrusion into the mouth and heavy physical contact and laying prone are all problematic. And I haven’t mentioned any actual procedures yet!”

Kids tend to be more willing to compromise and allow for dental treatments if they have seen a sibling or young family member (even good buddies) sit in a dental chair and have an exam done.  While a parent is a great comfort, they also tend to be someone to cling to and try to negotiate with to get out of an exam.  Big Grins has set up the clinic where this is not an issue.  Kids get to come in, play and both physically and emotionally separate from their parent prior to an exam.  The front of the clinic is a nice quiet area with coffee and magazines for parents to wait for their kids.  In the back, before the exam area, a huge interactive floor awaits kids.  The thought of going to the dentist have you climbing the wall?  There is a place for that too, a circular infinity climbing wall with a soft landing for those more adventurous kids.   This is also a way to get their mind off the upcoming appointment and just be a kid.

When an appointment time comes up, staff members call on that child and lead them to the exam area.  Dr. Greg emphasis that kids start early with a practice to get to know the staff and dental practitioner, and the staff get to know the kids too.  Dr. Greg knows he is able to push the envelope with gag reflexes and sensory issues when he is treating a child.  the better the relationship between child and Dr. and staff, the more comfortable and trusting the child will be during an appointment.  Parents are asked to keep brushing a consistent routine with at least twice daily brushing and regular exams and exams are an extention of those good habits.

Parent education is part of Big Grins strengths, always meeting with a parent after an exam to talk about habits, routine and answer questions.  Once kids are done in the dental chair, which at Big Grins is done next to peers and siblings, they can shoot off to grab a prize and back to the play area while mom or dad wait to hear about their child’s check up.

For Kids with sensitivities to dental care, Dr. Greg suggests using a tooth brush to chew on, give them an opportunity to get use the feeling in their mouth so brushing will not feel so foreign.  Some kids can’t tolerate the bristles of a toothbrush and need to start with concentrating on one area at a time, for a short time, and acclimate to more brushing.  He suggests using Tom’s of Maine toothpaste for both the very young brusher and also once fluoride is introduced into the brushing paste.  The taste of the paste does not need to be strong and minty, and foaming is not important.  Look for mild flavors and mild to no foaming to get a child started on good bushing attitudes.

Many children with Sensory issues have a high need for oral stimulation, chewing.  Dr. Greg encourages use of non sugary gums and objects that are not a choking hazard.  Due to younger children’s jaws still developing, the wear on bones and baby teeth are not a big concern.  As children grow older more concern would be placed on social response to objects being chewed, and encouragement towards gums and non-sugary candies for that oral stimulation.  Dr. Greg has seen his verity of chewed objects and feels that as long as they don’t pose a choking or puncture threat, or are made of metals, you can let them chew away.

Getting your child into the dentist, no matter their sensory needs, is a priority.  Finding a dentist that has patience with your child and his or her needs is a priority.  The more comfortable your child feels about his exams, the easier it will be to make the time to go.  There are more difficult cases Dr. Greg sees and he and his staff set aside time to treat these cases.  Some children just needs less stimulation and the staff schedules these kids during slow times.  Other children will need Dr. Greg’s constant attention for their visit and he can plan for their appointment ahead of time as well.  He puts the priority on a child’s comfort level so Dr. Greg can get his job done and help kids have great dental health.

Finding a Dentist, pediatric or family practice, may take time, but your smile will thank you for it.  Ask the staff about hospital privileges if you think your child might require sedation for a visit.  There are times that this is required, getting to know your child’s dentist and making that relationship a partnership will help your child in learning about healthy living.

The staff at Big Grins are top notch always making both child and parent feel welcomed and part of the health team, Dr. Greg is also a husband and father of two in Fort Collins, Colorado, and an avid fisherman.

To learn more about Dr. Greg at Big Grins visit his clinic here.

AAPD -American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

ADA – American Dental Association