Many parents struggle with persuading their children to brush and floss their teeth. Kids can be forgetful or dislike the strong flavor of toothpaste. Parents of children on the autism spectrum can find themselves with additional challenges getting their kids to care for their teeth due to sensory issues.
Children with autism typically experience sensations differently. Any aspect of visual, auditory, taste, smell, or tactile sensation can seem much more intense. Too many intense sensations can lead to a sensory overload. A sensory overload could frighten or overwhelm an autistic child.
Here are some guidelines to consider if you are the parent of a child with sensory processing challenges.
Use Soft Toothbrushes to Reduce Anxiety
If you can reduce some of the sensory factors of brushing their teeth, your little ones may become more compliant with brushing their teeth. The American Dental Association recommends brushing teeth twice every day for two minutes. Kids with sensory processing problems often prefer brushes with softer bristles. To enforce the two-minute time requirement, get a timer that will signal when the time is up.
Offer Unflavored or “Fun” Flavored Toothpaste
Many children dislike the taste and texture of toothpaste, but autistic children often find the taste more unpleasant than others. Children typically enjoy a bubble-gum flavored paste, and some toothpastes are made with low residue formulas. Parents can also find unflavored versions of toothpaste. For kids repelled by the foaming action of toothpaste, foam-free pastes eliminate that barrier to brushing.
Consider Ingredients for Specialty Toothpaste
Special toothpastes are made with care. They might contain grapefruit oil, powdered eucalyptus leaves, or ylang-ylang oil. The base of this toothpaste includes all-natural ingredients. Their formulas will detoxify your child’s mouth from food and drink residue and remineralize the surface of their teeth.
Make Dental Care Rewarding
Your child can see their brushing and flossing as a rewarding activity. Use a chart where your child earns stars or points each time they brush. When your child reaches an agreed-upon total, their stars will “earn” a prize or favorite activity. Stars might earn extra computer game time or a visit to the local arcade.
Make First Dental Visits Stress-Free
If you can persuade your child to brush and floss daily, that’s half the battle. The dentist’s office often means an overwhelming onslaught of sensations for a child with sensory processing problems. Before you take your child to their first dental visit involving a dental procedure, bring them in for a de-sensitivity visit first. Those visits will include a tour of the office and an introduction to all of the instruments and equipment that will be used during future visits.
Employ Special Methods During Dental Visits
Helping children with sensory processing issues often requires a reduction in sensations. Place a mask or sunglasses over the child’s eyes to dim the harsh dental lights. Since dental office sounds are usually frightening, headphones can be used – and the child can pick the music. Add a bit of comfort and familiarity to the visit.
Consider How Cavities Pose Additional Problems for Sensory
Autistic children aren’t alone in disliking the process of drilling and filling for cavities. 20% of children between the ages of five and 11 have at least one untreated cavity. Kids with sensory issues facing cavity treatment may experience a more intense reaction. Some autistic children may succeed by the use of nitrous oxide for relaxation.
As a parent, you know how essential your child’s dental visits are. After all, according to Colgate, an excellent oral care regimen includes two dental visits each year. By providing special brushes and toothpaste, you can ensure your little one is ready for regular dental visits. Here’s hoping your child’s next dental visit is a stress-free experience.