Dental Tips for Children with Autism

For children with autism and their carers, a routine dental appointment can be a challenging experience.

From the smells to the lights and the sounds, everything about a dental setting can cause distress to a child with sensory issues.

Dr Jennifer Collins, our clinical director, outlines some useful steps to help prepare your child with autism for a positive dental trip.

#1 Find an autism-friendly dentist

Most dental teams are trained in how to treat children with autism, and will adapt the experience to ensure a comfortable visit for both the child and their carer. Where possible, request the same dentist on each visit. Familiar faces will help to reduce anxiety for the child.

#2 Inform the dental practice

Ahead of the appointment, inform the dental practice of your child’s specific needs and wants. They can prepare the surgery by reducing noise levels, dimming lights or turning down music as necessary. Waiting times can also be kept to a minimum.

#3 Share a dental story

It can be useful to share a dental story with your child in advance of the appointment. Stories are a helpful tool to aid the child’s understanding of what will happen during the visit, from when they first arrive until it is time to leave.

#4 Review the practice website

To help your child visualise the dental surgery, it may help to show them photos from the practice website. Ideally, include photos of the autism-friendly dentist and dental team who your child will be meeting. Many practice websites feature a virtual tour of the surgery.

#5 Rehearse the sequence of events

It is a good idea to talk through the sequence of events at home before the dental appointment. You could introduce plastic dental mirrors and plastic gloves to help desensitise your child in advance. These can be purchased in most pharmacies or online.

#6 Maintain a dental routine

You can help to minimise the need for dental treatment by ensuring that your child brushes teeth twice a day for two minutes. Try a three-sided toothbrush to assist with efficient brushing, and introduce a flavour-free fluoridated toothpaste if the taste is a problem.

To book an appointment with an autism-friendly dentist, contact your local Dental Care Ireland practice.