Oral health status and dental treatment needs in children with autism spectrum disorder.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate oral health care practices, health status, and dental treatment needs in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 96 children diagnosed with ASD per the DSM-V criteria and 96 typically developing healthy children. The WHO form assessed oral health status and dental treatment needs.

RESULTS

Over 50 % of ASD children had mild/moderate autism, 35.4 % had severe autism, and 13.5 % had autistic traits. ASD children experienced more toothbrushing difficulties compared to non-ASD children. Based on Nyvad's criteria and decayed/filled teeth (dft) index, non-ASD children had higher caries prevalence than ASD children, indicating less need for restorative treatments in the ASD group. However, ASD children had poorer plaque scores than non-ASD children. A significantly higher percentage of ASD children exhibited harmful oral behaviors, including mouth breathing, lip biting, bruxism, nail biting, object biting, and self-injury (p < 0.001). ASD children also showed increased traumatic dental injuries compared to non-ASD children.

CONCLUSION

Compared to non-ASD peers, children with ASD have lower dental caries prevalence and less need for restorations, yet poorer plaque control. They also demonstrate more frequent oral self-injuries. ASD status appears related to toothbrushing difficulties. These findings highlight the need for tailored oral health interventions for children with ASD.