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Educational and therapeutic behavioral approaches to providing dental care for patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Author(s) -
Nelson Travis M.,
Sheller Barbara,
Friedman Clive S.,
Bernier Raphael
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
special care in dentistry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.328
H-Index - 41
eISSN - 1754-4505
pISSN - 0275-1879
DOI - 10.1111/scd.12101
Subject(s) - autism spectrum disorder , medicine , dental care , autism , psychiatry , family medicine
ABSTRACT Purpose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition which most dentists will encounter in their practices. Contemporary educational and behavioral approaches may facilitate successful dental care. Methods A literature review was conducted for relevant information on dental care for children with ASD. Results Educational principles used for children with ASD can be applied in the dental setting. Examples include: parent involvement in identifying strengths, sensitivities, and goal setting; using stories or video modeling in advance of the appointment; dividing dental treatment into sequential components; and modification of the environment to minimize sensory triggers. Patients with ASD are more capable of tolerating procedures that they are familiar with, and therefore should be exposed to new environments and stimuli in small incremental steps. Conclusions By taking time to understand children with ASD as individuals and employing principles of learning, clinicians can provide high quality dental care for the majority of patients with ASD.