A new way to approach ASD children in Dentistry

Eur J Paediatr Dent. 2024 Mar 1;25(1):12-19. doi: 10.23804/ejpd.2024.1884. Epub 2024 Feb 1.

Abstract

Aim: To present an innovative dental approach for children with autism spectrum disorder to the scientific community, along with the 3 questionnaires formulated to evaluate its effectiveness.

Methods: Development of the 3 questionnaires occurred in five stages: observation of the behaviours of ADS children and their caregivers attending the Dental Department in the year 2021; issues detection: anxiety in parents, crying, difficulty in waiting and hyperactivity of the children, fear of both parents and children; formulation of the questionnaires in order to obtain all the information necessary to assess the patient's psychological well-being; validation with submission of the questionnaires to two specialists; modification and final drafting.

Conclusion: Using the 3 questionnaires, the dentist will be able to assess the wellbeing of the patient and his/her family when attending the dental environment, monitor oral hygiene manoeuvres and verify the usefulness of the orthodontic approach to ADS child while creating a trusting relationship with the patient and his/her caregivers.

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Oral Hygiene
  • Parents / psychology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires