Challenges and solutions in managing dental problems in children with autism

Table 12 Medical comorbidities and associated dental disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder

Medical comorbidity	Associated dental disorder(s)	Impact on oral health
Gastrointestinal Issues (e.g., acid reflux, vomiting)	Enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, increased risk of decay	Exposure to stomach acids leads to weakened enamel and increased vulnerability to cavities
Epilepsy (and anticonvulsant medications)	Gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth), periodontal disease	Plaque buildup in gum pockets due to overgrowth increases the risk of periodontal problems
Genetic syndromes (e.g., Fragile X, Down syndrome)	Enamel defects, delayed eruption, malocclusion	Inherent dental anomalies complicate oral health and require specialized dental care
Sleep disorders (e.g., disrupted sleep patterns)	Bruxism (teeth grinding), enamel wear, jaw pain, tooth fractures	Grinding leads to accelerated wear on teeth, causing damage and sensitivity
Immune dysregulation/chronic inflammation	Gingivitis, periodontitis	Reduced ability to combat oral pathogens, leading to infections and gum disease
Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., calcium, vitamin D)	Weakened enamel, reduced saliva production	Deficiencies compromise enamel development and the mouth's natural defense against cavities
Psychotropic medications (e.g., antipsychotics)	Xerostomia (dry mouth), bacterial overgrowth, halitosis, rampant caries	Dry mouth fosters bacterial growth, increasing risk of tooth decay and gum disease
Metabolic disorders (e.g., mitochondrial dysfunction)	Delayed healing of oral injuries, infections	Impaired tissue repair, leading to prolonged healing times for oral wounds or infections
Dental issues common in ASD	Dental caries, acid erosion, gingivitis, periodontal disease, malocclusion, bruxism, non-nutritive oral habits	Poor oral hygiene, sugary diets, medication side effects, and sensory sensitivities elevate the risk of these issues

ASD: Autism spectrum disorder.