Barriers to dental treatment for patients on the autism spectrum disorder.

Abstract

Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encounter significant obstacles when attempting to access dental care services. These obstacles are a result of their unique health requirements, behavioral challenges, and communication impairments. The primary challenges encompass a reliance on caregivers, challenges with adhering to proper oral hygiene practices, selective eating habits that contribute to dental caries, and an impaired capacity to communicate pain and health requirements. Furthermore, dental clinics frequently lack the capacity to accommodate individuals with ASD, exacerbating their stress during visits. A further salient issue pertains to the dearth of adequate staff training to address the needs of patients necessitating specialized care. The objective of this paper is to analyze these barriers and propose solutions that can increase the accessibility and quality of dental care for individuals with ASD, thereby improving their comfort and oral health.