Pediatric Dental Care
Specialists and Researchers Preventing and Treating Oral Disease Heading link
Our general dentists and pediatric specialists use a compassionate and comprehensive approach to provide preventive oral health care, backed by the latest in pediatric research.
Our Pediatric Dentistry clinics offer a full spectrum of services for children at every stage of their lives from infancy through adolescence (under age 17) including those with special and complex oral health needs, and patients with special developmental and behavioral care needs.
Our general dentists and pediatric specialists provide comprehensive oral health examinations, teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, sealants, restorative procedures (fillings, crowns, etc.), extractions and minor surgical procedures, space-maintainers, athletic mouth guard, teeth whitening (for adolescents), interceptive orthodontic when applicable, and urgent care (Trauma, infection, etc.). These services can be completed using inhalation sedation (Nitrous oxide), moderate sedation, and general anesthesia.
Special Needs Dentistry Heading link
Developmental disabilities affect the mind, the body and the skills people use in everyday life. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often need extra help to achieve and maintain good oral health. And they are particularly at-risk for oral health issues such as severe tooth decay and periodontal disease. Poor communication skills, lack of manual dexterity, fear, uncontrolled movements, and other physical, emotional or behavioral factors can make it difficult for them to maintain proper oral hygiene.
UIC dentists are prepared to provide oral health care for babies and children, including those with disabilities and complex health issues.
Given the unique physical and social needs of an individual with a disability such as cerebral palsy or autism, providing dental care requires extra preparation and training. This is why our faculty, residents and student dentists at UIC College of Dentistry receive specialized training necessary to provide oral health care to intellectual and developmental disabled patients. Part of this training includes visits to area health centers and agencies that specialize in serving these needs.
“My visit to the dentist” / “Mi visita al dentista” Heading link
Stories written especially for your child who has autism or sensory issues, to help get ready for a visit to our pediatric dentists.
Video: Providing Dental Care to Easter Seals Academy Students Heading link
PROTECT - Patient Research Participation Opportunity Heading link
Dr. Helen Lee, an anesthesiologist, and Dr. Joanna Buscemi, a clinical health psychologist, along with Dr. David Avenetti (Department of Pediatric Dentistry) recognized that to decrease the need for pediatric oral surgeries, caregivers need resources and support to build their skills and knowledge on their child’s oral health. They came together to form the PROTECT research initiative.
Supported by the NIDCR of the NIH, the PROTECT intervention focuses on helping parents and other caregivers develop parenting and other behavioral skills. PROTECT will provide a community health worker (CHW) who is trained in helping families change health behaviors to improve a child’s tooth health. Together, families and their CHW will identify goals that are important and doable for each family. The long term goal of PROTECT is to prevent children from needing general anesthesia to treat severe cavities.
Support Services for Children and Families Heading link
We understand that when we see your child, we are not just treating a set of teeth. We know that providing the best pediatric dental care means getting to know our patient as a person and partnering with parents and caregivers. In our new Dental CASA Program we focus on helping you deal with the challenges that you may face getting the appropriate care for your child. You may need support to help your child feel more comfortable during appointments, or with getting here consistently so you can follow through with her treatment. If you need help with concrete needs we provide information or referral; if you have additional health care needs we can help to connect you to other providers. We work with your dental care team to provide support and resources, meeting you right where you are, while taking the time to understand your unique situation and strengths.
Patient Education Heading link
Tooth decay is the #1 chronic infection disease affecting children in the US.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) is the national membership association representing the specialty of pediatric dentistry. AAPD provides patient educational resources based on the latest evidence-based information so you are better informed to prevent tooth decay and have a healthy smile.
360 Virtual Tour of Pediatric Dentistry - Graduate Clinic Heading link
360 Virtual Tour of Pediatric Dentistry - Undergraduate Clinic Heading link
Appointments and Location Heading link
UIC College of Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry Clinics
801 S. Paulina St. 2nd Floor
Chicago IL, 60612
Department of Pediatric Dentistry Heading link
The Department of Pediatric Dentistry has over 20 highly trained specialists who focus on treating children. We offer a full spectrum of oral health services for all children at every stage of their lives from infancy through adolescence including those with special and complex oral health needs, and patients with special developmental and behavioral care needs.
