Apr 2, 2020
Maintaining good oral health is essential for everyone, but for children with autism, developing effective tooth brushing habits can be particularly challenging. Sensory sensitivities, difficulty with routines, and resistance to oral care are common obstacles. However, with patience and the right strategies, you can make brushing teeth a more manageable and even enjoyable experience for your child. With Gentle Dental, the clue is the in the name, we're Salisbury dentists with experience with nervous and neurodiverse patients.
Choosing the Right Toothbrush for Children with Autism
When selecting a toothbrush for children with autism, it’s important to choose one that suits your child’s specific needs. Look for a soft-bristled toothbrush that is gentle on sensitive gums. The size of the toothbrush head should be appropriate for your child’s mouth to ensure a comfortable brushing experience. Additionally, choose a toothbrush in a color or style that appeals to your child. Some children respond better to bright, colorful brushes, or those with familiar characters, making brushing more engaging.
Step-by-Step Guide to Introduce Tooth Brushing
For some children with autism, the sensory experience of brushing teeth can be overwhelming. Therefore, it’s important to introduce tooth brushing gradually. Here are some tips to help make the process smoother:
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Start Slowly: Begin by allowing your child to hold the toothbrush and explore it without the pressure of brushing. This will help them become accustomed to the look, feel, and texture of the toothbrush.
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Touching the Lips and Mouth: Gently use the toothbrush to touch your child’s lips or just inside their mouth. This will help desensitize the area and make the sensation of brushing more tolerable.
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Use Visual and Verbal Cues: Teach your child to “open wide” before brushing, so they understand the routine. You can use simple verbal cues or visual aids to encourage cooperation.
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Modeling: Show your child how you brush your own teeth. Children with autism often learn by watching others, and modeling good brushing habits can help them feel more comfortable with the process.
Establishing a Consistent Tooth Brushing Routine
Children with autism tend to thrive on routine and familiarity. Establishing a consistent tooth brushing schedule can help your child feel more at ease with the process. Here’s how you can build a successful routine:
- Set a regular time each day for tooth brushing, ideally after meals or before bedtime. Consistency is key.
- Use a timer or visual schedule to help your child understand how long they need to brush. A timer can also be a helpful tool for reducing anxiety about the process.
- Use positive reinforcement. Praise your child when they brush their teeth successfully, or offer small rewards for making progress.
Preparing Your Child for a Dental Visit
Dental visits can also be a source of anxiety for children with autism. To help ease your child into dental appointments, here are some preparation strategies:
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Practice in Advance: Use the toothbrush and mirror to practice sitting in the dental chair. If possible, visit the dentist's office beforehand to familiarize your child with the environment.
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Social Stories or Visual Aids: Consider using social stories or visual guides to explain what will happen during the visit. This can reduce any fear or confusion your child may have about the experience.
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Positive Reinforcement: After each visit, praise your child for being brave and cooperative. Rewards or a fun activity after the appointment can help create positive associations with dental care.
Additional Resources for Parents of Children with Autism
Establishing good oral hygiene habits for children with autism can take time, but with patience and persistence, your child will learn to understand the importance of brushing. For more information, tips, and tools to support your child’s tooth brushing routine and prepare for a dental visit, check out the following links:
By integrating these strategies into your child’s daily routine, you can help foster a positive attitude towards oral care and ensure their teeth and gums stay healthy for years to come.
If you or a family member has autism and wish to speak to a Salisbury dentist who understands, please get in touch or come see us in our practice.