Let’s face it; there are many of us that absolutely dread going to the dentist. Whether it’s the sounds and sensations associated with the dental office, or merely the notion of undergoing dental work, sometimes those feelings of anxiety are unshakeable—and unfortunately, those with autism have an even harder time coping with some of these circumstances! If your child has autism, you might be wondering what you can do to ensure their mouth is kept safeguarded from various oral health issues. Here are some tips from your pediatric dentist to help you out!
Children with Autism Are at An Increased Risk of Oral Health Problems
Children in general are at an increased risk of oral health issues for a variety of reasons, such as diet and hygiene, but for children with autism, these risks increase even more. It can be much more difficult for autistic patients to receive adequate oral care both at home and at the dentist’s office, mostly due to a lack of cooperation or comfort, meaning that tooth decay and gum disease pose a pretty serious threat.
Here are some of the most common dental problems that patients with autism are more prone to:
- Gingival overgrowth
- Tooth decay (in baby and adult teeth)
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Bruxism, or teeth grinding
- Tooth anomalies related to size, shape, and the number of teeth present in the mouth
- Accelerated or delayed eruption of one or more tooth
- Pits, lines, discoloration or other developmental defects in teeth
Tips for Protecting Your Child’s Smile
You are not alone when it comes to assisting your child with autism when it comes to oral care; with the help of your dentist and a solid knowledge base, you can thwart many of the threats that your child faces and help them protect their budding smile. Consider the following tips:
- Find a dentist who specializes in treating children with special needs such as autism; this will ensure that your little one is properly cared for. Many pediatric dentists undergo dedicated training that allows them to care for children with special needs in the exact manner required.
- Consider investing in dental hygiene products and tools that can make it easier for your little one to care for their smile at home; an electric toothbrush, oral irrigator, or even a tooth timer are all good options.
- Find ways to improve your child’s motor skills when brushing and flossing and be sure to encourage their efforts.
- Be mindful of products and equipment that might trigger sensory issues in children while they’re trying to care for their smile.
About the Practice
Here at Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re proud to provide families in the Randolph, MA community with an outstanding level of dental care! We offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic and restorative options, and are also thrilled to provide sedation dentistry solutions for patients with special needs. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange a visit for a loved one, feel free to contact us online or by phone today. Telephone: (781) 218-7342.