Treating Patients With Autism Spectrum Disorder

By Lauren B. Mirsky, RDH, BS and JoAnn R. Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex, lifelong developmental disability that impairs communication, as well as social, behavioral, and intellectual functioning.¹ As a catchall term, ASD includes autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, and Asperger syndrome, all of which differ in the number and severity of diagnostic features.² Data from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate the prevalence of ASD is approximately one in 68 children (and the rate is 4.5 times higher in boys); in addition, the condition is reported in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic populations.² Behaviors can range from aggression and being inattentive or hyperactive, to having a short attention span and/or having difficulty listening. It can also manifest as anxiety, extreme mood swings, being oppositional defiant, and/or obsessive-compulsive.^3,4 Communication deficits, sensory perception/overstimulation, obsessive routines, repetitive behaviors, unpredictable body movements, and self-injurious behavior can cause some patients with ASD to exhibit poor oral hygiene.¹ In order to provide effective care, oral health professionals should be knowledgeable about management strategies for patients with ASD.

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
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