The sensory sensitivities of children with autism spectrum disorder can make it a challenge to keep up a healthy oral hygiene routine, and it can also be a challenge for them to visit the dentist. Teaching children with autism to tolerate the sounds, tastes, touch, and sensations involved with a dental exam can be a very difficult task. However, following the correct steps has proven to be highly effective and contribute to better oral hygiene! Given that a child will require routine dental cisits for the rest of his life, these efforts are worthwhile.
Several things can be done to make a visit to the dentist less stressful for children with autism. Everything from using autism-friendly dental products to implementing behavioral techniques, and choosing dental professionals who have experience working with children can help ensure better oral health.
Explain What Will Occur
A child with autism does better going into new situations if they are aware of what to expect. It’s important to sit down with them before the dentist visit to let them know what they can expect. If you aren’t sure you’ve covered all the topics you should, your Denver family dentist can offer guidance for having this conversation.
Rehearse a Dental Visit at Home:
Please note: this program is taught as a chain (each step builds on the previous step).
- Sits in a mock dental chair
- Wears a dental bib
- Tolerates the light needed for the exam
- Tolerates the dentist wearing a dental mask and gloves
- Tolerates the dentist using a dental mirror in their mouth
- Tolerates the dentist counting their teeth with a rubber tip
- Tolerates a mock dental exam for 1 minute
- Tolerates a mock dental exam for 2 minutes
- Tolerates the dentist gently flossing their teeth with pic
- Tolerates an x-ray plate being inserted into their mouth
- Bites down on an x-ray plate for 15 seconds
- Tolerates a mock dental exam for 5 minutes
- Tolerates a mock dental exam for 10 minutes
- Tolerates a mock dental exam for 15 minutes
- Tolerates a mock dental exam for 20 minutes
Desensitization
Dental offices have certain smells, sounds, and sights that autistic children may find overwhelming. Desensitization can help them get used to this environment. They could sit in a chair for a few moments before the appointment starts. Follow up by having them sit with their mouth open. Continue to work up to the actual dentist working in their mouth.
Visit the Same Dentist
Choosing to take your child to the same dentist each time they need oral care is a great idea for children with autism. The more time the child spends in that same office, the less strange and uncomfortable it will feel. Your child will start to get used to the environment and the people who work there.
As time goes on, your child will be more comfortable going there. This can make dental visits far less challenging compared to the first time you walk in the door with your child.
Offer Comfort Objects
Many autistic children are soothed by certain objects, such as a weighted blanket, stuffed animal, or some modeling putty. Bring one of these favorite items to the dentist and offer it to them as they get into the dentist’s chair. It can help them relax and get through the appointment.
Remind them that their comfort object should stay in their lap and not go near their face while being examined or treated.
Use Reinforcement Rewards
After a successful trip to the dentist, provide your child with a special meal, snack, craft item, sticker, or another reward. For kids who really hate to visit the dentist, break the trip down into steps and make sure you provide a small reward for every step.
