Cleft's & ASD

Question 1

What are the possible reasons for a child with a CLP to have an increased risk of developing dental caries?

Answer 1

Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene in cleft area
Hypoplastic enamel
Crowding and supernumerary teeth in cleft area
Delayed oral clearance
Reduced saliva flow and/or buffering capacity
Extended bottle feeding rather than breastfeeding
Increased mouth breathing
Presence of fistula and communication with nasal cavity
More socioeconomically deprived

Question 2

What are the 3 main challenges for a patient with ASD?

Answer 2

Difficulties with communication and language
Difficulties in forming relationships with other people
A limited pattern of behaviour and resistance to small changes in familiar surroundings

Question 3

Why is dentistry challenging for patients with ASD?

Answer 3

Sensory overload
-new environment
-change in routine- missing school
-new smells
Auditory
-suction
-handpieces
-waiting rooms
Tactile
-cold
-metal instruments in mouth

Question 4

What are some potential dental features of ASD?

Answer 4

Non carious tooth surface loss
Caries depending on risk factors
Trauma/self-injurious behaviours (gingival trauma, dental trauma, ulceration, trauma to lips)
Xerostomia
-due to medications that they are taking