Oral Health behaviours and barriers to dental care among preschool children with autism spectrum

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a spectrum of developmental disorders characterized by impairments in communication and social skills. Children with ASD have difficulties in oral health care. AIM: The aims of this study were to (1) compare the oral health behaviours of preschool children with and without ASD, and (2) identify the main barriers to oral self-care and dental services experienced by children with ASD and their parents. DESIGN: Two hundred and fifty-seven preschool children with ASD were recruited from 17 Special Child Care Centres in Hong Kong. An age- and gender-matched sample of children from mainstream preschools was recruited as control group. The children’s oral health behaviours and their main barriers to oral selfcare and dental services were assessed. RESULTS: Preschool children with and without ASD had similar dental attendance, in terms of time since last dental visit and experience of dental treatment under general anaesthesia (P > 0.05). Compared to children without ASD, children with ASD were reported to have performed tooth-brushing and used toothpaste less frequently, but more frequently required parental assistance in tooth-brushing (P < 0.05). Similar frequency of snacking was reported among children with and without ASD (P = 0.05). Barriers to oral self-care and use of dental services were more frequently reported for children with ASD compared to children without ASD (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Differences in oral health behaviours existed between preschool children with and without ASD, particularly with respect to tooth-brushing habits. Barriers to oral self-care and access to dental services among children with ASD existed and warrant consideration.