Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. The symptoms of autism can range from mild to severe and it is thought to be largely influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Although up to 90% of people with an Autism Spectrum Disorder have sensory processing difficulties, Sensory Processing Disorder is a separate condition recognized in up to 16% of the general population.

Sensory processing is the nervous system’s ability to receive, process, and react to sensory information from one’s own body and the environment. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is when sensory information entering the nervous system is incorrectly processed, resulting in a person’s inaccurate reactions, recognition, perceptions, or awareness. Irregularities in sensory processing are typically recognized and acted upon as an oversensitivity or a decreased registration or awareness of sensory information.

Assisting Children with Autism and sensory issues: How Dentists Make a Difference

A visit to the dentist can often include a lot of new sights, sounds, smells, and sensations. For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or individual sensory issues, the abundance of sensations and stimuli may be overwhelming. However, making regular trips to the dentist is an incredibly important part of building a good oral health program for children.

Patients with ASD and sensory issues may avoid dental treatment due to sensory processing deficits that can create anxiety, often leading to uncooperative behavior during the dental appointment. Reducing anxiety by desensitization and implementing specific treatment strategies prior to and during dental appointments are effective in patients with ASD

By taking the time to prepare for the dental visit, you can ensure that your child’s experience is as positive as possible. With the right care and support, children with autism can have successful visits to the dentist and maintain good dental health.

What to Expect at a Dental Visit for Children with Autism and Sensory Issues

Visiting the dentist can be a stressful experience for any child, but for children with autism and sensory issues, it can be especially challenging. It’s important to keep in mind that the dentist is there to help your child maintain their dental health and overall wellness. Before the visit, take the time to talk to your child about what to expect. You can explain that the dentist is a medical professional who is there to provide care and help them maintain their dental health. At the dental office, your child’s dentist will be familiar with autism and sensory issues, and will be prepared to provide the necessary care and support. The dentist may suggest certain accommodations to make the experience easier for your child, such as providing noise-cancelling headphones or a weighted blanket. It’s also important to let the dentist know if your child has any special needs or requirements. With the right preparation and support, your child can have a successful and positive experience at the dentist.

How to Make a Dental Visit Comfortable for Children with Autism: a few tips

Visiting the dentist can be a challenge for children with autism and sensory issues. It is important to make sure that your child is comfortable and that their needs are met during the visit.
Here are some tips to make the experience more enjoyable for your child and the dentist.

Before the visit : Schedule a tour in the dental clinic the weeks or days ahead of your actual appointment so your child will feel more comfortable in that setting. Be sure to discuss your child’s individual needs, concerns, or challenges with the dentist or staff before the appointment.
A visual schedule, or social story, may be very helpful in preparing children for their visit to the dentist. As with the sensory avoidance routine, it will help to practice each step until your child understands and feels comfortable with each part of the process before moving on.
You may find it helps to break the process into smaller, repeatable steps. For instance, you and your child may make the trip to the dentist, meet the front-desk staff, and sit in the chair without receiving treatment, then go home with a prize. This gradual approach may be helpful in alleviating anxiety and promoting familiarity.
Don’t forget to bring his own toothbrush and toothpaste so that we can practice with the tools your child is used to.

During the visit, the dentist can help make the experience more comfortable for your child by providing a calm and quiet environment. This can include dimming the lights, using noise-cancelling headphones, and providing calming music. It is also important to ensure that your child has enough time to adjust to the environment and to take breaks if needed. These tips can help make a dental visit more comfortable for children with autism and sensory issues. With the right care and attention, you can ensure that your child receives the dental care they need for their overall wellness.