Mulighederne for at gennemföre en odontologisk undersögelse på börn med autismespektrumforstyrrelse kan forbedres ved hjaelp af et odontologisk desensibiliseringsprogram
Sammanfattning
BACKGROUND – The authors evaluated the effectiveness of a
dental desensitization program for children with autism spectrum
disorder (ASD) and determined characteristics associated
with a successful dental examination.
METHODS – The authors performed a retrospective review of
clinical behavioral data and previsit questionnaires for 168
children with ASD who attended a university-based dental desensitization
program. Data elements included demographic,
treatment, and behavioral characteristics. The primary outcome
was receiving a minimal threshold examination (MTE)
while seated in a dental chair.
RESULTS – An MTE was achieved for 77.4% of all children within
1 to 2 visits and 87.5% in 5 visits or less. Several factors predicted
a successful dental examination: ability to be involved
in group activities (relative risk [RR], 1.18; P ¼ .02), ability to
communicate verbally (RR, 1.17; P < .01), understanding of most
language (RR, 1.14;P ¼ .02), moderate versus severe caregiverrated
ASD severity (RR, 1.24; P ¼ .04), and ability to dress self
(RR,1.27; P ¼ .04).
CONCLUSIONS – Desensitization was effective in achieving an
MTE for most children. Those with characteristics consistent of
a milder presentation of ASD were more likely to be successful.