Pamela Watkins
Proper oral health is important for everyone, but it can be especially challenging for those on the autism spectrum (ASD). Many individuals with autism have Sensory Processing Disorder, which can make the sights, smells, and sounds of a dental visit overwhelming. In addition, many people with autism have difficulty tolerating tactile sensations, making it difficult for them to sit still for an extended period of time. As a result, parents of children with autism struggle with dental appointments, and some even avoid taking their children to the dentist altogether.
However, avoiding the dentist can lead to serious problems down the road. The Autism Speaks website states that "oral health is a very important component of healthy daily living" but concedes that many patients with autism find it "challenging."
In addition, people with autism are more likely to grind their teeth, which can lead to tooth wear and other problems.
What Can Parents Do?
If you're the parent of a child with autism, there are steps you can take to make dental visits more successful, including:
Dental visits can be successful for both children with ASD and their families. With some advance planning and preparation, you can help ensure that your child has a positive experience at the dentist's office and maintains good oral health. For more information, contact a children's dentist near you.
When you start shopping around for dental care, it can be hard to know who to work with. Over the years, I have gone to several different dentists, and some of my experiences have been better than others. I decided to create a website to help other people to learn more about different aspects of dental care, so that you have a better idea of what you might be looking for. It can be intimidating to choose a dentist, but by knowing what you need, you might be able to look forward to your next dental check up and receive more customized care.