Every February, National Children’s Dental Health Month is an important reminder of the significance of establishing good oral hygiene habits early in life. National Children’s Dental Health Month began as a one-day event in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1941. The American Dental Association (ADA) later expanded it to a week in 1955 and a month-long observance in 1981. It promotes oral health awareness, encouraging good dental habits for children across the United States.

For many children, brushing their teeth and visiting the dentist are routine activities. However, for children with autism and sensory processing challenges, these tasks can be overwhelming due to heightened sensitivities to textures, sounds, and other sensory inputs. Children with autism may find tooth brushing and dental care challenging due to sensory sensitivities, difficulty with routine changes, and heightened anxiety about oral sensations. Understanding sensory processing and implementing sensory-friendly strategies can make dental hygiene less stressful and more accessible for children with autism.

The Impact of Sensory Processing on Dental Care

Sensory processing refers to how the nervous system receives, interprets, and responds to sensory input from the environment. Many children with autism experience sensory sensitivities, meaning certain textures, tastes, or sounds can feel overwhelming or even painful. When it comes to dental hygiene, the sensations associated with brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist can be distressing.

Common sensory challenges in dental care include:

• Tactile Sensitivity: The texture of toothbrush bristles, toothpaste foam, or the feeling of floss between teeth may be uncomfortable. Some children with autism may perceive these sensations as painful or overwhelming, leading to resistance when it comes to oral hygiene. The sensation of a wet toothbrush or the gritty texture of some toothpastes can also be aversive. Finding alternatives, such as silicone toothbrushes or non-foaming toothpaste, can help make the experience more tolerable.
• Oral Defensiveness: Some children may be averse to having objects in their mouth, making brushing and dental visits difficult. This can stem from an overactive gag reflex, discomfort with the feeling of a toothbrush, or an overall sensitivity to oral input. Gradual desensitization, such as introducing oral hygiene tools slowly or incorporating oral sensory activities like chewing on textured toys, may help increase tolerance.
• Auditory Sensitivity: The sound of an electric toothbrush, running water, or dental equipment can be distressing. The high-pitched whirring of a drill, the buzzing of a toothbrush, or even the echoing noises of a dental office can trigger sensory overload. Using noise-canceling headphones, allowing the child to listen to calming music, or opting for manual toothbrushes may ease anxiety.
• Vestibular and Proprioceptive Sensitivities: Certain head positions during brushing or dental visits may cause discomfort or anxiety. Tilting the head backward for an extended period can feel disorienting, and lying back in a dental chair may trigger a fight-or-flight response. Practicing different head positions at home, using pillows for support, or allowing the child to sit upright when possible can improve comfort.

Making Dental Hygiene Sensory-Friendly at Home

Adapting oral hygiene routines to accommodate sensory needs can help children with autism feel more comfortable with brushing and flossing. Here are some strategies to create a sensory-friendly dental care routine at home:

Choose the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste

• Opt for a soft-bristled or silicone toothbrush to reduce discomfort.
• Let your child explore different toothbrush options, including manual and electric, to find what feels best.
• Consider using unflavored or mildly flavored toothpaste if your child is sensitive to strong tastes and minty flavors.
• Some children prefer toothpaste without foaming agents, as foam can be an unpleasant sensory experience.

Establish Predictable Routines

• Consistency helps reduce anxiety. Brush at the same time every day to create a sense of predictability.
• Use a visual schedule with pictures or a step-by-step guide to help your child understand the sequence of brushing.
• Consider using a timer or a favorite song to indicate how long to brush, providing structure and predictability.

Incorporate Sensory Supports

• Allow deep pressure input before brushing, such as a firm hug or using a weighted blanket, to help with sensory regulation.
• Provide a sensory-friendly environment by dimming lights, reducing noise, or playing calming music.
• Use vibration toothbrushes if your child enjoys the sensory input or prefers consistent pressure.

Gradual Desensitization

• Introduce brushing in steps, starting with touching the toothbrush to the lips, then the teeth, and gradually increasing brushing duration.
• Encourage your child to practice brushing on a stuffed animal or a mirror to increase familiarity.
• Allow your child to have some control over the routine, such as choosing their toothbrush or toothpaste.

Preparing for Sensory-Friendly Dental Visits

Going to the dentist can be an overwhelming experience for children with autism due to bright lights, unfamiliar sounds, and physical sensations. However, with proper preparation, dental visits can be made less stressful.

Choose a Sensory-Friendly Dentist

• Look for a pediatric dentist experienced in working with children with autism.
• Ask if the office offers sensory-friendly accommodations, such as dimmed lights, noise-canceling headphones, or a quiet waiting area.

Prepare in Advance

• Use social stories or videos to familiarize your child with what to expect at the dentist.
• Schedule a pre-visit to allow your child to explore the dental office without undergoing treatment.
• Role-play the dental visit at home using a toy dental kit.

Bring Comfort Items

• Allow your child to bring a comfort object, such as a weighted blanket, fidget toy, or stuffed animal, to help reduce anxiety.
• Use noise-canceling headphones or listen to calming music if the sounds of dental equipment are overwhelming.

Communicate with the Dentist

• Inform the dentist and staff about your child’s sensory preferences and potential triggers.
• Discuss the use of breaks, hand signals, or alternative methods to make the visit more comfortable.

Encouraging a Positive Relationship with Dental Care

Making oral hygiene a positive and stress-free experience can help children with autism build lifelong healthy habits. Celebrate small successes, provide encouragement, and be patient with progress. By creating sensory-friendly dental care routines at home and ensuring a supportive experience at the dentist, parents, and caregivers can empower children with autism to develop confidence in their oral hygiene practices.

This National Children’s Dental Health Month, let’s work toward making dental care accessible and comfortable for all children, including those with sensory processing challenges. With the right strategies and support, every child can achieve a healthy smile!