Creating Autism-Friendly Dental Spaces
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition characterized by challenges in communication, behavior, social interaction across multiple contexts, and engaging in repetitive patterns of behaviors.1 These characteristics can cause significant impairment in social situations, impacting various aspects of health and well-being.2 However, ASD is more than a collection of challenging behaviors; there are different levels of ASD that vary from individual to individual. ASD is best understood as a neurological difference that affects how autistic individuals processes their environment.
Autistic individuals face multifaceted challenges in accessing dental care, including heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli, anxiety in unfamiliar environments, and difficulties adapting to modifications in their daily routines. These factors can hinder the autistic individual’s ability to maintain regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene practices. For dental professionals, these sensory sensitivities can make providing care more complex. Key challenges include difficulty in cooperation, communication barriers, and stress and anxiety management. To mitigate these challenges, oral health professionals need to understand these multifaceted obstacles so they may develop personalized strategies to support success.
* References and figures can be found in the original article via the link above.
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