According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 160 children has an autism spectrum disorder. Children on the spectrum can face various challenges from sensory issues, including dental problems. Although their teeth and facial features are often no different, children on the spectrum have an increased risk of poor oral health for various reasons. With dental and general health connected, here are a few tips to help your little one keep their mouth healthy, despite sensory sensitivity and other challenges.
Autism Dental Health Tips
Children should brush their teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes each session. Daily flossing is equally important. However, children with sensory issues and other challenges from life on the spectrum can make brushing and flossing a daily battle. Here are a few ways you can help your little one keep their teeth and gums healthy.
- Electric Toothbrush: It’s not unusual for a child to rush through their brushing routine because it can feel like a chore. Short attention spans can lead to even less time brushing. An electric toothbrush can help make up for your child’s shortcomings. It offers more brush strokes than a manual toothbrush to clean more of their teeth surfaces. Many electric toothbrushes also come with certain features, like pressure sensors, to ensure your child develops the correct brushing habits.
- Waterflosser: Around the age of 6, children should begin flossing their teeth every day. However, traditional dental floss can be frustrating and difficult for small hands to use. A water flosser is a great alternative. It uses gentle pressurized water to clean the most hard-to-reach areas in their mouth quickly and effectively.
- Timer: Brushing for 2 minutes can seem like an eternity for a child with a lot of energy. You can ensure your child is brushing long enough by setting a timer.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: It’s easy for children to get sidetracked or lose focus on the task at hand. Noise-canceling headphones can help your child stay focused while brushing and flossing. It can also reduce the sounds from brushing to reduce sensory overload.
Importance of Regular Dental Care
Your child should also have a cleaning and checkup every 6 months, which may not be easy if they are on the spectrum. It’s important to find a dentist with experience treating patients with unique needs. The right dental team will work with your child to help them feel comfortable and relaxed while in the dentist’s chair. They’ll create a personalized plan to keep your little one’s mouth healthy by protecting against common dental problems linked to autism.
About Dr. Dhavalkumar Rana
Dr. Rana achieved his dental degree at New York University and has continued his education in periodontics, dental implants, and many other specialties. He strives to help patients of all ages adopt good oral hygiene routines at home to support the mouth and body connection. He is affiliated with many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (469) 331-4990.