How to Help Your Child with ASD Overcome Fear of the Dentist and Establish Lifelong Healthy Oral Hygiene Habits

For a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), going to the dentist causes even more fear and anxiety than it does for the rest of us. The sights and sounds of an unfamiliar dental office, not to mention the prospect of sitting still while a person you don’t know probes around in your mouth, makes for an uncomfortable set of circumstances for most people. For a child who becomes overwhelmed easily or who can’t communicate well, preventive checkups can feel more like semi-annual punishments.

Fortunately, there are ways both parents and dental professionals can help children with ASD overcome their fears, get the dental care they need, and establish the healthy habits necessary to care for their teeth and gums for the rest of their lives. To do so, you must first understand the challenges children on the spectrum face, find the right dentist, and prepare your child for each visit.