An unfamiliar clinic, the sound of machines and bright lights can make a child with autism anxious. Preparing in advance makes the visit gentler for both the child and the parents.
- Children with autism are often sensitive to noise, light and the feeling of touch in the mouth.
- Parents should tell the clinic in advance and ask for a short familiarisation visit.
- Show pictures of the steps, choose a quiet time and keep the visit short.
- Brushing at the same time every day helps build a habit.
Many children with autism are more sensitive to sound, light, smell and the feeling of being touched in the mouth. A dental clinic has noisy machines, bright lamps and unfamiliar instruments, which can easily make a child anxious. With preparation in advance and patience, many children can manage a check up more smoothly.
Before the visit
- Tell the clinic in advance that your child has autism, what your child is sensitive to and any routines that matter.
- Ask for a short familiarisation visit: your child only looks around and tries sitting in the chair without being examined.
- Use simple pictures or a short video to show the steps: walking in, sitting in the chair, opening the mouth and the dentist counting teeth.
- Practise at home so your child gets used to opening the mouth and having an adult gently touch the teeth with a soft toothbrush.
During the visit
- Choose a quiet time with less noise so your child is less overwhelmed.
- Let your child bring a familiar object or a favourite toy.
- Keep the visit short, go one small step at a time and praise your child for completing each step.
- Sit close so your child feels safe, and speak in a calm voice.
Looking after teeth at home
Children with autism may be picky eaters or prefer sweet food, and brushing can sometimes be difficult. Parents can try a soft brush or a mild flavoured toothpaste and brush at the same time every day to build a habit. See also tooth decay in children and how much toothpaste a child needs.
If your child is afraid of the visit, read what to do when a child cries and will not open the mouth and when to take a child for the first dental visit.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. Parents can call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first, or walk in during opening hours and explain their child's needs so the dentist can plan a suitable visit.
Frequently asked questions
Can a child with autism have a dental check up?
Yes. Parents should tell the clinic in advance, ask for a short familiarisation visit, choose a quiet time and keep the visit short so the child feels less stressed.
How can I help my child with autism feel less afraid at the dentist?
Show pictures or a video of the steps, practise opening the mouth at home, bring a familiar object and praise your child after each step.
When is a good time for a dental visit for a child with autism?
A quiet time with little noise, when the child has eaten and rested, usually makes it easier for the child to cooperate.