Kids with special healthcare needs deserve specialized care from an experienced, compassionate pediatric dentist.

As a board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Christopher Groat appreciates that children are not simply “little adults.” They have specific oral health needs and demand different approaches to care. Additionally, Dr. Groat has developed considerable expertise in caring for children with special needs. We know that what works for one child does not necessarily work for another, especially when supporting the comfort and oral health of kids with a range of diagnoses. 

Groat Pediatric Dentistry in San Pedro, California, has experience with safely caring for kids with autism, down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other potential challenges to their getting quality dentistry. Since the mouth’s health is so intertwined with systemic health and well-being, it is essential to ensure that these kids continue to visit us for regular check-ups and cleanings. We can also appropriately customize treatment to account for your child’s mobility, sound tolerance, sensitivity to lights and other stimuli, and additional limitations, whatever they may be. 

By choosing our practice as your child’s dental home, you are developing a strong and healthy relationship with our specialist and the rest of our competent and compassionate team. On this solid foundation, we get to know your child’s specific needs and can then ensure that every visit is tailored to those needs and that the environment and approach that we take imbues trust, comfort, and safety. 

We can build effective treatment strategies for both in-office and home care. Additionally, we can monitor your child’s progress and stay on top of any evolving or changing needs. This level of consistency and continuity of care supports your child’s emotional, mental, and physical health; they get to know and trust us, making succeeding visits and treatments easier – your child may even look forward to them! 

A note on sedation

Sedation dentistry can be an important aid when caring for the needs of children with specific physical or mental conditions. In fact, it may be the only way to provide safe care. Groat Pediatric Dentistry is privileged to provide an array of relaxing sedative options. 

The option that is best for your child depends on numerous factors, including the state of the patient and the nature of any challenges to their getting care, as well as the complexity of the procedure or services that are needed.  

As a member of the medical staff at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, Dr. Groat is one of the very few local dentists who can provide hospital dentistry.  We are proud to offer this service to our special patients who may otherwise be unable to receive such a high level of care.  

Know that we are here for you and your family and want to play a vital and positive role in your child’s health and well-being. Call our office in San Pedro, CA, at (310) 832-5133 to discuss your needs with our team today, and we’ll get to work on a plan for your visit and child’s care.