If you have a loved one with autism, you’re no stranger to the difficulties presented to them by everyday tasks and activities. While those born with autism don’t have different teeth or mouths, they do tend to be more likely than people not on the spectrum to cultivate dental health problems. In this article, you’ll find discussion about those issues and how to help your loved one overcome them.
What Oral Health Issues Do Autistic People Face?
Here are a few examples of common dental conditions that people with autism have:
- Gingival overgrowth, or an abnormal overgrowth of gum tissue around the teeth.
- Early and late tooth decay.
- Severe, early periodontitis (gum disease).
- Grinding their teeth at night (bruxism).
- Anomalies in tooth size and shape and the number of teeth in the mouth.
Why Are Those with Autism More Susceptible to These Problems?
Autistic individuals may experience oral health issues due to a combination of factors, including sensory sensitivities, behavioral challenges, and potential co-occurring conditions. These issues can manifest in a poor oral hygiene routine, dental trauma, and conditions like bruxism or oral fixation.
Dentist’s offices, with their bright lights and noisy tools, can be difficult for a person with autism to tolerate, or they may have trouble sitting still in the dentist’s chair for very long. This may interfere with their recommended semi-annual visits and stop them from getting the care they need for their teeth. Without regular maintenance, their oral health suffers.
What Can I Do to Help My Loved One?
There are many ways you can go about getting your loved one with autism the attention they need:
- Find one dentist: For example, if you have an autistic child, find one dentist ahead of time who has experience working with children with autism who you feel good about and take your little one there. This can eliminate a lot of anxiety. In general, pediatric dentists are a good bet when looking for a qualified professional.
- Prepare before the visit: Take them for a tour of the office through their website and tell them about the dentist they’ll be seeing. You could also talk about your positive experiences you’ve had with dentists.
- Find a dentist who offers sedation: Sometimes, sedation is necessary to ensure your loved one gets the treatment they deserve. There are several methods available to relax them!
- Ask friends and family for recommendations: Asking someone who cares for a loved one with autism can be a good way to find a dentist who can provide for your similar needs.
Though your autistic loved one may be more prone to dental issues, that doesn’t mean they have to come another statistic! Bear these pointers in mind to help provide the best oral care you can for them.
About the Practice
Beck Dental Care of Columbia has conveniences including several expert dentists in one office and early morning and evening hours so you or your loved one can easily get in and get the care needed. Our comprehensive services range from routine cleanings and checkups to sedation dentistry to dental implants. Whatever your needs may be, schedule your appointment today online or by calling our office at (931) 388-8452.