Dr. Michael LaCorte is a Board Certified Pediatric Dental Specialist who is dedicated to the oral health of all children from infancy through adulthood. As a pediatric dentist, Dr. LaCorte is trained to provide oral health care to patients of all ages with special needs, from mild emotional needs to significant medical challenges.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) defines special needs dentistry as the practice that treats those with a physical, emotional, developmental, cognitive, sensory or mental impairment, as well as those affected by an orofacial disorder or condition.
Patients with special needs are at greater risk for oral disease and often require specific care. For patients that require specific management to complete treatment, Dr. LaCorte provides nitrous oxide, in-office oral or IV sedation, and hospital care.
Dr. Michael LaCorte graduated from New York University College of Dentistry with honors. He completed his pediatric residency program at Brookdale Hospital and Medical Center. At Brookdale, Dr. LaCorte was the recipient of the Resident of the Year Award and was appointed Chief Resident. He is currently affiliated with Banner University Medical Center, Northwest Medical Center and Tucson Medical Center as a child dental specialist, treating those with neurological, cranial and/or developmental defects. Dr. LaCorte has been in private practice since 1993.
Office Appointments
An appointment with a special needs dentist may be different from a visit with a regular dentist. Dr. LaCorte is aware of this and tailors his approach to the patient’s specific additional needs. Patients with special health care needs usually require a slower approach than usual, and their appointments may be set when the clinic is not as busy. Dr. LaCorte finds that often, the best method for treating sensitive patients with special health care needs is to provide them with a choice of sedation from in-office to general anesthesia in an operating room.
Medical Consultations
Dr. LaCorte coordinates care via consultation with the patient’s other care providers. When appropriate, the physician is consulted regarding medications, sedation, general anesthesia, and special restrictions or preparations that may be required to ensure the safe delivery of oral health care.
Special Needs Community
Dr. LaCorte is very active in the special needs community, supporting many local and national organizations such as the Special Olympics, the Autism Society of Southern Arizona, and the Southern Arizona Network for Downs Syndrome.
Dr. LaCorte is on staff at Tucson Medical Center and Banner University Medical Center where he works closely with other medical providers caring for dental needs of high-risk medical patients.
Every individual patient requires and needs a different approach in handling behavior, guiding dental growth and development and avoiding future dental problems. As a pediatric dentist, Dr. LaCorte has had special training to provide the most up-to-date and thorough treatment for a wide variety of dental problems.
Our staff remains current on issues of dentistry, pediatrics and special needs. All are available and trained to answer questions or discuss concerns you may have. Each staff member regularly attends education seminars in dentistry, keeping them up-to-date on the latest scientific developments and trends.
Individuals with significant medical, physical or mental disabilities often present a unique challenge to the dental practitioner. His friendly and knowledgeable staff, along with a bright and cheerful office environment, paves the way for a positive experience and a lifetime of smiles. Dr LaCorte and staff have the ability to ensure excellent care for your loved ones.