Fact-checked by Vincenza De Falco, Autism & Learning Disabilities Specialist Coach<\/a><\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to research<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cMost autistic children have problems with their day to day activities such as eating, drinking, sleeping, bathing<\/a>, and tooth brushing. All these factors could make them more prone to oral disease. Although the caries experience in these children is not high, their oral hygiene is fair. Gingivitis secondary to drug-induced gingival enlargement can be present. Children with autism also commonly have damaging oral habits such as bruxism, tongue thrusting, pricking at the gingiva, lip biting, and pica.\u201d<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
So, how does one teach an autistic child to brush their teeth? Let\u2019s find out! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\nIn this post, we'll cover:<\/p>\n
- How to Teach an Autistic Child to Brush Their Teeth<\/a>
- Choose the Right Brush <\/a><\/li>
- Create the Right Environment <\/a><\/li>
- Introduce Brushing <\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Dental Care Tips for Autistic Children <\/a><\/li>
- Perseverance is the Key!<\/a><\/li>
- References<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n
<\/span>How to Teach an Autistic Child to Brush Their Teeth<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It is important to understand that teaching anything, including brushing, to an autistic child depends on their level of function. High-functioning children can learn to brush their teeth<\/a> without much problem. However, low-functioning children need more guidance and usually take longer to develop the habit of brushing daily. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Choose the Right Brush <\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The first thing you need to do is choose the ideal brush. Different types of toothbrushes are available in the market in various colors, styles, and sizes. Choose a soft brush that suits your child the best. Make sure you choose the right size so the brush can reach the back teeth easily.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Furthermore, the brush must be easy to handle with an ideal grip. Some people prefer to enhance the toothbrush<\/a> to make it more ergonomic. If your child is sensitive to a certain color, choose a brush in different color and avoid a brush with eccentric designs or patterns. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Create the Right Environment <\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When trying to teach autistic children to brush their teeth, it is essential to take all measures to make them feel as comfortable as possible<\/a>. So, while most people brush their teeth in the bathroom, you can brush your child\u2019s teeth in another part of the house where they are more at ease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While this is a small change, it can help big time!\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/span>Introduce Brushing <\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Autistic children often need guidance when brushing, especially when they are still developing the habit. This means that the best way to introduce brushing is to brush their teeth. This will familiarize them with the sensation caused by the brushing action without feeling pressured to learn a new task.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It is advisable to introduce and practice one thing at a time. So, start slowly. There are various methods that you can adopt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For instance, you can start by simply touching the brush to their lips or use the countdown technique<\/em><\/strong> to help your child comfortable with brushing. Show them how you brush your teeth by brushing in front of them and explaining each step as you do it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can also teach them to \u201copen wide\u201d before you start brushing. This will make sure that you can clean all your teeth.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n