Visiting the dentist can often include a lot of new sights, sounds, smells, and feelings for children. However, for children with autism, the abundance of sensations and stimuli can be overwhelming at times. That said, attending routine dental checkups is the foundation of maintaining a healthy smile for life – it’s just not always easy to get children with certain needs to feel comfortable during them. Here are a few tips that can help you assist your child with autism with their dental habits and prepare them for regular dental visits.
1. Establish an At-Home Routine Beforehand
Establishing an oral hygiene routine at home with your child can go a long way toward preparing them for professional dental care – plus it points them toward a lifetime of excellent oral health. Children with autism greatly benefit from having this daily routine; it won’t feel like a stressful or surprising thing, and they’ll slowly but surely learn how to care for their smiles on their own. However, as a parent, you should assist them with tasks like brushing and flossing for as long as they need it. You can also make brushing a family activity; this familiarity can easily translate to checkups and cleanings and helps children form a more positive connection with not just their dentist, but dental care in general.
2. Schedule Their Appointments During Low-Stress Times
Dental offices can be busy, which may overwhelm a child with autism. When scheduling their appointment, try to choose a time when the office is less likely to be crowded, such as the early morning or mid-afternoon. These appointment slots tend to be quieter, which can greatly help your child to feel more relaxed. It’s also wise to schedule appointments on days when you know your child isn’t busy or overwhelmed with school or extracurriculars.
3. Talk with Your Child About What to Expect
Preparation is key for children with autism, since they may struggle with transitions or unfamiliar routines. Well before their visit, talk with your child about what to expect in simple, clear language that they can understand. You might use stories or visual aids to assist with this, or if the office has them, photos of other smiling children being treated. Many dentists also offer pre-visit tours, especially for children – don’t hesitate to call ahead and see if your office can accommodate your child this way. It’s also worthwhile to speak with your child’s dentist beforehand to let them know how they can properly prepare on their end.
Dental visits may always be a bit challenging for children with autism, but with the right preparation, patience, and support, you can make things far less stressful for your child. In time, they should learn to associate the dentist with positive experiences and build good oral health habits that last a lifetime!
About the Practice
The team here at Kids’ Smiles on Lincoln has served families in Worcester and the surrounding community for several years under the leadership of Dr. Myles Clancy and Dr. Mina Schafft. We offer a wide range of pediatric dental services for children of all ages and are more than happy to accommodate your child, regardless of their needs. Our team also excels at treating children with autism. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule an appointment for your child, you can reach out online or by phone for more information. Telephone: (508) 506-8859.