Oral and Dental Health in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Challenges, Needs, and Clinical Strategies

Oral and Dental Health in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Challenges, Needs, and Clinical StrategiesABSTRACT Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that is characterised by its onset in early childhood and persistent deficits in social interaction alongside restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour. Individuals on the spectrum frequently encounter significant barriers to accessing routine healthcare services, particularly in the context of dental treatment, resulting in reduced attendance at dental appointments and difficulties in delivering effective and comprehensive clinical interventions.Methods: This review examines recent evidence regarding oral hygiene practices and the dental health status of children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental conditions on the autism spectrum. It also addresses the specific challenges encountered during dental treatment in this population, including sensory, behavioural and communication-related factors. Furthermore, the review evaluates dental materials that have been either clinically optimised or selectively utilised to accommodate the distinct sensory sensitivities and clinical requirements associated with autism-related presentations.Results: Current evidence suggests that children on the autism spectrum are more vulnerable to various oral health problems. Among these, heightened dental anxiety, periodontal disease and dental caries are particularly prevalent. To effectively manage such challenges, it is widely recommended that dental professionals receive structured and comprehensive training on the oral health needs of children requiring special healthcare support, ideally integrated early within their professional education.Conclusions: Providing effective oral healthcare for individuals with autism spectrum-related neurodevelopmental conditions requires a patient-centred and multidisciplinary approach. Evidence suggests that the implementation of behaviour management strategies, enhancement of communication with caregivers, and improvements in practitioner education can substantially improve clinical outcomes and patient cooperation.Keywords: Autism, Dental management, Oral hygiene, Pediatric dentistry