Mirsky, L. (2018). Treating patients with autism spectrum disorder.

Dimensions of dental
hygiene, 16(2). 46-49.

This article explained what it means to be on the autism spectrum, it is much more than

just autism and could include other conditions and disorders that alter a person’s ability to

communicate, their social skills and intellectual functioning. It also gave examples of behaviors

people on this spectrum may exhibit and what their oral cavity may be like. The article

discussed dental concerns with these patients and how to alter treatment to fit their needs in

addition to rewards and tips to help the patient trust the dental team.

I really enjoyed this article. It gave straight forward examples of traits these patients

may exhibit including; more aggressive tendencies, inattentive or short attention, anxiety,

drastic mood changes, defiance, obsessive or repetitive habits, unpredictable and evidence of

self-injury. The article was also straight forward about what you as the hygienist or oral

professional may see in the mouth and how their treatment may be more difficult. A hygienist

may observe that these patients have poor oral hygiene, a high caries risk, evidence of bruxism,

grinding, clenching, or chewing of the tongue. Their treatment may be difficult because they

may not allow anyone full access to their mouth, they may become anxious and have outbursts.

They may not be able to communicate effectively which could contribute to how they react to

treatment. I learned that 1 in 68 kids are on the autism spectrum, although I believe this

number is consistently increasing. These kids have a 4.5 times higher chance of being male. I

also learned that 41% of those on the autism spectrum also have an intellectual disability and

condition like epilepsy or ADHD. The article gave good tips for making these patients feel
comfortable and have a better relationship with the dental team. We have discussed in

previous classes about decreasing sensory features with these patients like limiting

conversation, loud noises and bright lights. But I liked how this article included the whole dental

team, focused on planning out the appointment, picking up on triggers and giving rewards for

accomplishments. The article talked about how the patient feels and reacts in various

situations, rather than how the hygienist must modify the appointment. This gave me a better

understanding of why those modifications should be made and what to try in the event I have

an autistic patient or a patient with a similar need. I also liked that the article expanded on

involving family members and caregivers and suggested collaborating with a registered dietitian

and physician to ensure all the patients’ needs are being met.