How Does Autism Affect Oral Health?

What Are the Common Dental Health Issues of Children with Autism?

Children and even adults on the autism spectrum may be more likely to deal with:

• Cavities
• Periodontal disease (gum disease)
• Excessive tooth grinding
• Dry mouth

Of course, every child is different, and being more likely to develop certain dental health issues doesn’t mean they will do so.
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However, parents of children with autism may need to take special care of their little one’s oral health and make some accommodations.
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How to Improve Oral Health in a Child with Autism

Here are some good oral health practices that can be regularly done at home under the supervision of the parents or caregivers:
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• Brushing the teeth regularly, which should start as soon as the first tooth erupts.

• Choosing the acceptable products for the child in terms of the type of toothbrush they prefer, toothpaste flavor and color, etc.

• Adding visual support in the bathroom to help the child follow the process.

• Creating a visual schedule for oral health.

• Reducing sugary treats and drinks.

• Adding plenty of fresh fruits and veggies to the child’s diet.
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Taking Your Child to the Dentist

Even if you build a strong and easy to follow routine at home, taking your child to the dentist may still present some challenges.
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It’s important to find a dentist who has some experience in working with children on the autism spectrum, and who can help you prepare for their visit.
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Usually, the preparation process can involve:
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• Communication with the child to establish trust
• Visiting the office to help the child become familiar with the environment
• Showing the child what will happen during the appointment to prepare them for the process
• Offering positive reinforcement to increase compliance
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In some cases, sedation may also be necessary to help the child feel at ease during the appointment, and allow the dentist to restore their oral health.
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Bringing Your Child to Saginaw Kids Dentistry

As parents, we understand you may feel weary of bringing your child into a new environment that can seem scary even for adults. But we assure you both Dr. Elias and Dr. Christina will do everything they can to help your child feel safe and comfortable during their appointment.
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Book a consultation at Saginaw Kids Dentistry online, or call us at (682) 285-1900 for more information.