Nonverbal Patient with Autistic Spectrum Disorder Presents for an Initial Dental Visit

Alicia Risner-Bauman; Miriam R Robbins

doi:10.1016/j.cden.2023.05.002

Nonverbal Patient with Autistic Spectrum Disorder Presents for an Initial Dental Visit

Dent Clin North Am. 2023 Oct;67(4):565-568. doi: 10.1016/j.cden.2023.05.002. Epub 2023 Jul 3.

Authors

Alicia Risner-Bauman¹, Miriam R Robbins²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, 240 South 40th Street 215, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. Electronic address: arbdds65@upenn.edu.
² Department of Oral Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, 240 South 40th Street 215, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.

PMID: 37714595
DOI: 10.1016/j.cden.2023.05.002

Abstract

Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) can be characterized by communication and social interaction difficulties, focused or repetitive behaviors, and an apathetic demeanor. The understanding level of an individual who cannot communicate cannot be assessed; therefore, we cannot assume the level of understanding of some individuals with ASD. Unfortunately, general anesthesia (GA) is oftentimes used for individuals with ASD due to their inability to cooperate, possible aggressive behaviors, and inadvertent movements, without first trying less-restrictive techniques. Teaching dentists how to develop and execute management plans without GA can increase access to dental care for this population and improve their overall health.

Keywords: Autism; Behavior management; Dental; Nonverbal; Prevention.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Autism Spectrum Disorder* / complications
Communication
Humans