Inability to pay attention and hyperactivity in classrooms creates problems for these children to adjust in regular school settings. These children get distracted easily. They run around and have difficulty following instructions and learning at school and home. Children with ADHD also experience problems in making friends. Medications are available to stabilize ADHD condition.
ADHD and its impact on ‘Oral-Health’ of a child:
Consequently, decreased attention span leads to poor oral hygiene, which can result in development of caries. Sometimes these children have bruxism (teeth clenching) habits, as well. Hyperactivity also put these children at high risk for dental injuries.
Dental visits and use of sedation:
Parents or caregivers, need to ask for morning appointments from their doctor, as at this time of the day, the children are less fatigued, can pay attention to instructions, and able to remain seated on the dental chair for some time, while treatment.
Conscious sedation:
Use of conscious sedation can help relax and calm these children. Parents can ask their doctor for inhalation or oral sedation for behavior management during dental treatment.
Bruxism (teeth clenching):
To help bruxism (tooth clenching) habit in these children mouth guard and/or night guard is an option. After evaluating the level of understanding of the child by the doctor, night guards can be considered for children with ADHD.
For an optimal experience, please
