Toothbrushing & Dental Visits
Children with autism or other sensory sensitivities can struggle with brushing their teeth. Visits to the dentist can also be overwhelming as well. However, I wanted to share a few tips and tricks that have worked well in our household, in hopes that it will assist you.
Start as early as possible with oral hygiene - Use a wet wash cloth to wipe your baby’s gums. As your baby gets older, use a finger toothbrush to gently clean and massage your baby’s teeth, gums and tongue.
Routine - Brush your child’s teeth at least twice a day and ensure it’s incorporated into your routine (morning/bedtime/after meals…)
Make it fun - Involve your child when it comes to picking the flavour of their oral care products.
Use a double or triple-sided soft bristle toothbrush with your toddler/child to help them clean all sides of their tooth at once.
Use a timer - Children tend to persevere when they see an end to an activity they don’t like/enjoy.
If your child won’t allow you to get near them with a toothbrush, you will need to desensitize them by gradually exposing them - Stick to a routine and start by exposing your child to a toothbrush and model rubbing the toothbrush on your lips. Ask them to give it a try and verbally praise them when they do. Once they are comfortable with the toothbrush rubbing their lips, set a timer for 5 seconds and try counting their teeth with the toothbrush. Gradually increase the time by 5 seconds and eventually to 1-2 minutes, as you move the toothbrush back and forth. You will need to use your judgement to decide when your child is ready for a time increase. It’s very important to praise your child every time they reach your desired goal.
Consider using a reward chart. You can download my free printable reward charts here.
Model and play a game - My Turn - Your Turn - As your child becomes more comfortable, you can break down the steps and help them become more independent by modeling each step before they give it a try.
Consider trying an electric toothbrush - Some children enjoy the sensory feedback from the vibrations.
Create a visual schedule to breakdown each step to help your child become more independent.
Discuss the importance of oral hygiene with your child. I’ve linked some children’s books below that may help.
Stay positive and be patient - If your child is resisting all your efforts, try not to be upset or angry with them. Take a break and try again and consider discussing it further with your child’s dentist (as well as their occupational and/or behavioural therapist if you’re working with one), to see if they have any other recommendations.
Visits to the Dentist
Good oral hygiene will help ensure your visit to the dentist is a positive one. It will also prevent cavities and gum disease as treatment can make dental visits challenging for your child.
Here are my top 5 recommendations as you prepare your child for their first dental visit:
Bring your child to the dentist to watch as you get your teeth checked/cleaned. This helps them see what a dental office looks, sounds, smells and feels like. Bring them a couple times and mention that you will bring them back for their appointment to get their teeth checked as well.
Read books to your child about the dentist before their appointment. There are many options available online, or at your local library. Check out some of our favourites below.
Bring sunglasses, headphones and a weighted blanket with you. The bright lights and sounds in a dental office can be overwhelming. Your dentist may have sunglasses and headphones on hand, but it may be best to come prepared. A weighted blanket can help bring a sense of calm to your child if they are anxious/nervous while they’re in the dental chair.
Discuss a reward before your child’s appointment to motivate them.
Do your research, read reviews and find a dentist that is good with children and has experience with children with autism. We have been so fortunate with our dentist, Dr. George Vouronikos from North Queen Dental. Dr. George and his staff have always been extremely warm, compassionate and understanding with the boys’ sensory sensitivities and they always find a way to make them feel special when they come in for a dental cleaning/check-up. The boys actually look forward to their visits with Dr. George which is very heartwarming.
They are also on Autism Ontario’s recommended list of dentists.
Hope these recommendations help!
I frequently share updates on my Instagram page @natalieabkariancimini and you’re welcome to send me a DM if you have any specific questions.
Lots of love,
Natalie Abkarian Cimini
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: For Little Monkeys Charity is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com or Amazon.ca. None of the links are sponsored and the recommendations are 100% based on my own opinion/experience.
Lorenzo at a dental check-up at North Queen Dental with Dr. George Vouronikos
Leo at a dental check-up at North Queen Dental with Dr. George Vouronikos
