Many families struggle with helping their loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities take care of their teeth. Routine care and regular exams can be a problem, especially when dental problems do occur. Finding dentists who specialize in treating people living with special needs or who are willing to learn and adapt to the individual’s needs can be difficult.
At our last Fragile X Clinical & Research Consortium meeting, many of the clinics shared they also find it challenging to find and refer quality dentists to their patients living with FXS. As a result, the NFXF team searched for helpful resources for both families and the clinics. We hope you find the following helpful!
External Resources
Developmental Disabilities & Oral Health — National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
A general overview with helpful tips.
Special Care Dentistry Association
An international organization of dental professionals and other individuals who are dedicated to promoting dental health and wellbeing for people with special needs.
Dental Help for Adults with Disabilities: Care and Considerations — Dentaly.org
Includes information on difficulties in accessing dental care for people with disabilities, programs that provide dental funding for disabled adults, special considerations for dental care for disabled patients, and online resources for people with disabilities. Also includes a link at the top right for “Find a Dentist,” which you can use to call and locate a dentist toll-free, 24/7, or you can call manually (866) 383-0748
A network of volunteer dentists and labs that serve adults with special needs across the U.S., including state programs.
NFXF Resource
Visiting the Dentist — A Fragile X Mom’s Advice for All Caregivers
Tip: Try contacting a local dental university, dental school, or medical center and asking if they have a program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
