BackgroundAutism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition which has posed a challenge to carers, pediatricians and dentists through the years. Over the last four decades, the disorder has been better understood and management techniques have evolved. In the field of dentistry, the autistic child presents difficulty in management, even for the simplest dental procedures. A comprehensive understanding of other psychoeducational and behavioral approaches to manage autism is very important. This article aims to introduce various important key techniques such as Applied Behavior Analysis, TEACCH, Sensory Adapted Dental Environment, Picture Exchange Communication System, and Animal Assisted Therapy and analyze their application in dentistry.MethodsA search of literature was carried out in Clinicaltrials.gov, Medline and Scopus with the search terms “Applied Behavior Analysis,” “TEACCH,” “Sensory Adapted Dental Environment,” “Picture Exchange Communication System,” and “Animal Assisted Therapy” along with “autism OR autistic,” “dental OR dentistry OR oral health.” After the screening for inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 eligible articles were included, in English, published within the last 10 years.ResultsLimited research was available regarding these lesser‐known behavioral approaches in dentistry. The few that were available showed encouraging results. The different techniques proved useful in increasing acceptance of dental treatment and reducing behavioral disturbances. The patients experienced reduced dental anxiety, lesser discomfort, improved communication, and knowledge.ConclusionPediatric and special care dentists are likely to benefit by incorporating the recommended comprehensive behavior management techniques in their practice. There is evidence that these techniques will reduce behavioral disturbances in autistic children thereby making primary dental care possible without the need for sedation or general anesthesia.
The coronavirus disease which originated in Wuhan, China led to a worldwide pandemic. In India, which harbors the second largest population in the world, it created challenges on multiple fronts. In view of the increasing demand for medical healthcare, dental professionals represent an untapped resource to combat the pandemic. In many countries, dental professionals have risen to the challenge in the fight against COVID-19. This review aims to highlight the experience of dental professionals in a tertiary care hospital designated as a dedicated COVID–19 facility as frontline workers while also providing a perspective on the much larger role a dental professional can play in future pandemics. Keywords: Coronavirus; Dentistry; Pandemic
A
bstract
Aim
To report a unique case of Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) in a young boy and discuss the oral health impact and management of the disease.
Background
Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) is a rare autoimmune disorder with various clinical manifestations. Biallelic mutations in the autoimmune regulator (AIRE) gene lead to impairment of central immune tolerance and a targeted attack on various endocrine and non-endocrine organs. Patients classically suffer from a triad of disorders, including chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC), hypoparathyroidism, and adrenocortical failure (Addison's disease).
Results
In recent times, it has been observed that oral manifestations of the disorder, such as enamel hypoplasia, appear early and frequently. Affected individuals require a comprehensive preventive and minimally invasive approach for oral health along with follow-up throughout their lifespan to manage potentially life-threatening disease manifestations.
Conclusion
Prompt recognition by a pediatric dentist can facilitate an earlier diagnosis and allow for screening, preventive and therapeutic services.
Clinical Significance
To deliver oral health care in an effective and comprehensive manner, clinicians should be able to recognize, diagnose and manage the signs and symptoms of the disease.
How to cite this article
Tyagi R, Kalra N, Khatri A,
et al.
A Rare Case of Autoimmune Polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal Dystrophy Syndrome: Dental Perspective on Diagnosis and Management. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(1):139-146.
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