Predicting successful dental examinations for children with autism spectrum disorder in the context of a dental desensitization program.

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 = .02), ability to communicate verbally (RR, 1.17; P < .01), understanding of most language (RR, 1.14; P = .02), moderate versus severe caregiver-rated ASD severity (RR, 1.24; P = .04), and ability to dress self (RR, 1.27; P = .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.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Desensitization can be a successful approach to providing dental care for children with ASD.