Oral hygiene and habits of children with autism spectrum disorders and their families
SR. Hage, SA. Lopes-Herrera, TF. Santos, DA. Defense-Netvral, Ana Paula Bortoletto Martins, LY. Sawasaki, F. M. FERNANDES
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) frequently receive poorer health care then the general population. Frequently the speech-language pathologist is the only health professional that follows the child's everyday life and therefore is the only resource for guidance regarding basic health habits. Poor oral health may result in severe discomfort and other health problems that can be prevented by simple routine habits and adequate professional follow-up. The aim of the present study was to gather information about oral hygiene and dental care habits of children with ASD and their families. The hypothesis was that these children have poorer oral care habits than their families. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Participants were parents of 120 children with autism, aged 4 to 12 years in two different cities of the state of Sao Paulo. They answered to a simple questionnaire about oral hygiene and health care habits. RESULTS: < 0.001) between the children and their families regarding basic oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, as well as routine visits to the dentist. CONCLUSIONS: Autism disorder, oral hygiene habits, oral health.