Mumbai: The BMC-run Nair Dental Hospital has emerged as the only institution in the country providing free dental treatment under general anesthesia for special children.

This unique service has brought relief to families grappling with the challenges of maintaining the dental health of children with conditions like down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and autism. While dental procedures typically involve local anesthesia, special children often struggle to cooperate, making treatment under general anesthesia essential.

Nair Hospital treats approximately 200 children annually, ensuring their dental health needs are met without distress. The hospital has state-of-the-art facilities, including three advanced operation theaters, a 26-bed ward, and six private rooms. Patients are provided care in these wards both before and after treatment, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

Parents of special children often face challenges in maintaining oral hygiene, and untreated dental issues can escalate, causing discomfort and complications.

A Boon

The hospital’s initiative has proven to be a boon for these families, setting a benchmark for inclusive and compassionate healthcare. Dr Neelam Andrade, the hospital’s dean said that children with special needs generally have a greater need for dental treatment due to inappropriate motor and physical abilities.

Statement Of Dr Neelam Andrade, Hospital's Dean

“They are also more prone to cavities due to diet variations, medications, improper brushing etc. A paediatric dentist is well trained and qualified to treat children with special health care needs,” she said.

Speaking about the hospital’s unique services, Dr Andrade said for the treatment of special children, they have doctors from the anaesthesia department of Nair Medical College.

“Before administering general anesthesia, all necessary fitness tests are conducted. Only after clearance are the children taken to the operation theater for dental treatment. Posttreatment, the patients are kept in the ward for two days. Such facilities are not available in any other dental hospital,” she said.