SPECIAL NEEDS DENTISTRY

Compassionate care for every child

Medina Pediatric Dentistry is proud to provide dental care in a caring and supportive environment for special needs patients and those with complex medical issues. Dr. James Kozik is uniquely qualified to provide special needs dentistry and superior dental treatments that these patients may not be able to receive in a traditional dental setting. He is qualified to care for a wide variety of patients including those with:

  • Autism
  • Down Syndrome
  • Fragile X
  • Prader-Willi Syndrome
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Epilepsy
  • Seizure disorders
  • Anxiety
  •  
OUR COMMITMENT

Care tailored to your child — never one-size-fits-all

Our pediatric dentists are specially trained to care for children with a wide range of special healthcare needs, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, sensory sensitivities, and anxiety. We take the time to understand your child and adapt every visit to their comfort level.

Before your first appointment, we’ll talk with you about your child’s needs, triggers, and what helps them feel at ease — so we can plan a visit that works for your family.

HOW WE HELP

Frequently Asked Questions

Going to the dentist can be scary for any child, but children with special needs typically have greater anxiety. Dr. Kozik's advanced training includes specialized behavior management and sedation techniques. Below are common questions regarding special needs dental care. Should you have other questions, please contact our office.

Do special needs children have special dental needs?

Most do. Some special needs children are very susceptible to tooth decay, gum disease, or oral trauma. Others require medications or diets that are detrimental to dental health. Still other children have physical difficulty with effective dental habits at home. The good news is that dental disease is preventable. If dental care is started early and followed conscientiously, every child can enjoy a healthy smile.

Absolutely. Pediatric dentists have two or more years of advanced training beyond dental school. Their education as specialists focuses on care for children with special needs. In addition, pediatric dental offices are designed to be physically accessible for special patients. Pediatric dentists, because of their expertise, are often also the clinicians of choice for the dental care of adults with special needs.

Some children need more support than a gentle, caring manner to feel comfortable during dental treatment. Restraint or mild sedation may benefit your special needs child. If a child needs extensive treatment, the pediatric dentist may provide care at a local hospital. Your pediatric dentist has a comprehensive education in behavior management, sedation, and anesthesia techniques. He or she will select a technique based on the specific health needs of your child. Then, the dentist will discuss the benefits, limits, and risks of that technique with you.

THE MEDINA APPROACH

Patience, respect, and trust

We move at your child’s pace, celebrate every small victory, and build a relationship that turns dental visits into positive experiences. Our goal is a lifetime of confident, healthy smiles.

Ready to give your child a healthy smile?

New patients are always welcome. We make first visits easy, gentle, and fun.