Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Its Determinants in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review.

Background/

Objectives

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) represent a special population whose characteristics may adversely affect both their own and their families' quality of life. These characteristics include poor oral health, sensory hypersensitivity, restrictive and repetitive behaviours, communication difficulties, medication-related adverse effects, and associated comorbidities. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of children and adolescents with ASD, as perceived by their parents/caregivers, and to identify the factors associated with these outcomes.

Methods

Literature searches were conducted in the MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar databases. Studies published between 2016 and May 2026 were considered for inclusion.

Results

Of the 799 records identified, 23 studies met the eligibility criteria. Among these, 15 used the Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire (P-CPQ), an instrument specifically developed for children with cognitive impairments. Most studies reported statistically significant associations between poorer OHRQoL and dental caries experience, lower household income, older age, male sex, and lower parental oral health literacy. Conversely, preventive interventions and comprehensive dental rehabilitation performed under general anaesthesia were associated with improvements in the quality of life of both children and their families. Parents of children with ASD also reported a greater emotional burden, primarily related to responsibility for toothbrushing, dental attendance, the child's general health status, and the family's financial situation.

Conclusions

The majority of the included studies indicate that, according to parental reports, children and adolescents with ASD experience poor OHRQoL, particularly in the domains of emotional well-being, social well-being, functional limitations, and oral symptoms. These findings highlight the need for targeted preventive strategies and multidisciplinary interventions aimed at improving both oral health and overall quality of life in this vulnerable population.