Evidence‐based analysis of multi‐pronged approaches for education and behavior management of autistic patients in a dental setting

Abstract

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 management of patients with autism in pediatric dental clinics: a review of the literature

“…In addition, close collaboration with parents and caregivers, as well as training the dental team in autism-specific behavioral management techniques, are crucial aspects of successful care. The individualization of care, combined with a deep understanding of the patient's needs, constitutes the basis for the effective and compassionate management of the autistic patient in the pediatric dental clinic (ZERMAN et al, 2022;GOYAL et al, 2023).…”

Behavioral guidance for improving dental care in autistic spectrum disorders

“…Since the literature on the efficacy of psychological techniques for the dental management of autistic patients is scarce ( 23 ), mostly with a small sample size and without a control group ( 24 ), it may be worth implementing different techniques for improving oral health in ASD children.…”