Adelberg Montalvan Proud to Support the Nassau/Suffolk Autism Society of America

Did you know that more than 3.5 million Americans live with an autism spectrum disorder? And, since 2000, the prevalence of autism in U.S. children has increased by 119.4 percent, from 1 in 150 in 2000 to 1 in 68 in 2010. In fact, the CDC lists autism as the fastest-growing developmental disability.

As we approach Autism Awareness Month (April), we’re proud to announce our support for the Nassau/Suffolk Autism Society of America!

Each of our offices will be participating in this year’s puzzle piece heart campaign and starting TODAY, March 29, we will be accepting donations to help make a difference for individuals with autism!

During your next visit, donate a $1 (or more!) and sign your name in one of these puzzle piece hearts to hang in our office. We will match ALL donations 1:1 and even give an extra dollar for each NEW LIKE or FOLLOWER we receive on our social media channels (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram)! All donations will go toward social and recreational events for individuals with autism on Long Island.

We are proud to be supporting such a phenomenal charity and truly believe that together we can make a difference!

Adelberg Montalvan specializes in caring for children’s teeth in a comfortable and welcoming environment, in three different Long Island locations: Massapequa Park, Nesconset and West Islip. If you are in need of a local pediatric dentist and/or orthodontist, look no further! Contact us today to learn more.

Exploring Dental Health with Children on the Spectrum

We know that oral health is a very important piece of daily living, but for children with autism - developing the proper dental health habits can be challenging. As we finish up Autism Awareness Month, we wanted to continue to share some tips for those with children on the spectrum: 

Get started at home: For some children with autism, brushing may be difficult. You may need to desensitize them to help them get used to the sensation of brushing. Start by touching a toothbrush to the lips or just inside the mouth. Eventually you may be able to begin brushing one tooth for a second or two. Showing your child how you brush can also be helpful.

Accommodate their needs: While sure, most of us brush our teeth in the bathroom - a child with autism may feel more comfortable elsewhere. Feel free to accommodate their needs - sit with them on a couch or another area of the home they feel at ease.

Use visual aids: Visual supports and schedules can also come in handy. For one example - you may choose to photograph each step of the tooth brushing process, print them, add Velcro to the backs and place them in chronological order on a board. Once each step of the process is complete, remove that image.

Find the right dentist: At Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental, we are devoted to providing the best mental and dental care for all of our patients, including those with special healthcare needs. Our doctors are specially trained in special needs dentistry and are committed to providing your child with the attention and care they deserve to create a positive dental experience.

Majority of our special needs patients are treated in the chair, awake - but we also offer in house sedation when needed. If you have a child on the spectrum, or with other special needs, please give us a call to come in for a walk through. You and your child will be able to visit the office prior to having an actual ‘appointment.’ During that visit you can meet the dentists, tour the office, sit in the dental chair and ask any questions or concerns you may have. Contact us for more information today.

Autism Awareness Month: Autism and Oral Health

 www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

 

We know how important oral health is to our daily routines, but for children with autism, oral health habits can be challenging. If you have a child on the spectrum, we wanted to provide some tips in helping to prepare them for their first visit with us.

You can practice having your child sit in a reclining chair as well as practice some of the below steps so that they understand the directions from the dental professional.

• Putting their hands on their stomach
• Putting their feet out straight
• Opening wide
• Holding their mouth open
• Counting their teeth
• Cleaning with a power brush
• Taking X-Rays
• Spitting into the sink

Each step may need to be mastered individually and some children may benefit from visual supports and schedules. For a visual schedule print out and additional oral health care tips, take a look at Autism Speaks' Dental Guide here »

 

At Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental, we are devoted to providing the best mental and dental care for all of our patients, including those with special healthcare needs. Our doctors are specially trained in special needs dentistry and are committed to providing your child with the attention and care they deserve to create a positive dental experience.

Majority of our special needs patients are treated in the chair, awake - but we also offer in house sedation when needed. If you have a child on the spectrum, or with other special needs, please give us a call to come in for a walk through. You and your child will be able to visit the office prior to having an actual ‘appointment.’ During that visit you can meet the dentists, tour the office, sit in the dental chair and ask any questions or concerns you may have. Contact us for more information today.