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Lots of positive reinforcement/praise for when they are able to complete any of the task. Even if it’s not brushing but just holding the toothbrush. It could be for putting the brush near their mouth. Or even just holding the brush inside their mouth. This is a great way to build up to brushing their teeth. And also getting them used to the feel and taste of the toothpaste and toothbrush.
Alternatively, if the sensation is too much, powder toothpaste is another option. Powder toothpaste is great for cleaning oral wounds or sores and gets into hard-to-reach places, making it great for anyone who struggles to brush teeth twice a day. It’s not as effective as a toothbrush but it’s a start. As they get desensitized, it will be easier to introduce a toothbrush after some time. Hyposensitivity means limited sensation or numbness in the oral region, often causing anxiety about the toothbrushing process. On the other hand, hypersensitivity is the heightened awareness of anything entering the mouth. For autistic children, it's unpleasant to brush their teeth if not performed with care.
Sensory Processing Disorder in Teens and Adults
The ADA continues to show support for the autism community, funding and publishing research that helps ensure better dental care. For example, in 2017, a study that could help individuals with autism was featured in The Journal of the American Dental Association. This study focused on a dental desensitization program. What they found was that when given the opportunity to practice dental skills at their own pace, most patients with autism could sit for an exam with a dental mirror. If going to a family dentist seems out of the question, then finding a pediatric dentist that works with special needs children would be your best option. These dentists receive training beyond dental school and have a standard procedure in place. Don’t hesitate to reach out to other special needs parents or your health care provider if you need help finding one. The American Dental Association has an online search tool to find a dentist near you. An important finding of our work indicates that for Latino/a autistic children, parents play a significant role in their child’s ability to access their in-home oral care. However, this study also highlights that some aspects of the routine were completed easily, independently by most participants. For example, nearly all the participants were able to complete the steps necessary to prepare for toothbrushing, such as placing the correct amount of toothpaste on the brush ( n = 8 autistic and n = 8 non-autistic). Additionally, half of the participants also brushed for the two minutes suggested by the AAPD. In fact, the autistic children more frequently brushed for at least two minutes as compared to their typically developing counterparts. This may be the result of modifications utilized and/or the strategies implemented by parents involving timers to help regulate the activity. Families and practitioners can take from this finding that independence and autonomy in toothbrushing is a possibility for some autistic children once certain needs are met and accommodations made to help understand the autistic neurotype. Sensory issues — Hypersensitivity is common among individuals with autism. Not only is your mouth extremely sensitive, but the dentist’s office is full of noises, smells, and bright lights. The sensation of a cold instrument in your mouth may cause discomfort, the sound of a drill may cause you distress or the taste and texture of dental paste may be unpleasant.
They might be dreading the feeling of bristles against their teeth and gums or it could be the taste of the toothpaste. When your child is ready, apply pressure on other areas such as the head and face, below the ear, and cheekbone. As a father of two sons with autism, finding dental care products that work for them has been a challenge. Recently, I tried out the 4 Pieces Three Sided Toothbrush Autism Sensory Toothbrush Bristle Travel Toothbrush for Kids Complete Teeth Gum Care. Here is a detailed review of the product's good and bad aspects:For one, it can help kids who crave a daily routine. Having a regular time-set routine benefits many Autistic individuals. By using a toothbrush designed for Autistic children, it allows for a smoother transition into the next part of their day – especially bedtime. Reduce Plaque and Improve Oral Care The key is to experiment with different kinds of toothbrushes. You can try a toddler toothbrush with softer bristles or a sensory brush for older children. There are also bristles made with silicone instead of plastic which your child might find more tolerable. Routine activities like getting a haircut or going to the dentist can be stressful for parents of autistic children.
The bathroom is where we brush our teeth, but children with autism might feel anxious to do it there. Choose a place in your house where your child feels most comfortable. You can even teach him in the bathtub, where your child will be distracted by toys. RADIUS KIDZ BRUSH FOR 6 YEARS AND OLDER: Accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA) the Kids fun colors easy grip handle and soft bristles make it the perfect fit for children 6 years and older.Anywho, I think after day 2 we finally are starting to get the hang of it and now and my kiddo INSISTS on brushing his teeth himself. IN FRONT OF THE MIRROR! 😱🤯👏👏😂 The time spent on actual teeth brushing is actually longer than 40 seconds though because he likes it and is still getting the hang of it but for reals. Small miracles and tender mercies! I'll take the WIN! 🙌 Once he gets the hang of it we are definitely going to progress to the electric one! This was a good starter for sure!
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