Dental Care for People with Autism in San Francisco

At Itani Dental, we understand that a trip to the dentist can be a daunting experience for anyone, let alone someone on the autism spectrum. Our goal is to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all of our patients, and we are proud to offer specialized care for those with autism.

Our team is trained in providing gentle dental care, and we take the time to get to know each patient and their unique needs. We also offer a variety of accommodations, such as weighted blankets and noise-canceling headphones, to help make our patients feel comfortable and relaxed. We believe that everyone deserves quality dental care, and we are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our patients on the autism spectrum.

The Most Common Dental Problems Seen in Patients With Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological condition that can affect every aspect of a person’s life, including their oral health. Studies have shown that people with ASD are more likely to experience dental problems than the general population.

The most common dental problems seen in patients with ASD include cavities, gum disease, and enamel defects. Cavities are more common in people with ASD because they often have difficulty brushing their teeth properly. Gum disease is also more common in people with ASD because they are more likely to suffer from chronic inflammation. Enamel defects are often seen in patients with ASD because they tend to have higher levels of acidity in their saliva.

Other common dental problems that patients with autism are more prone to include:

• Chronic dry mouth: People with ASD often have difficulty producing enough saliva, which can lead to chronic dry mouth and an increased risk of cavities.
• Swallowing disorders: People with ASD may have difficulty swallowing, which can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Oral sensory issues: People with ASD may have sensitive teeth or gums, which can make dental care more difficult.
• Anxiety and stress: People with ASD often have anxiety and stress, which can make dental visits more difficult.

What You Can Do At Home

There are also a few things that you can do at home to make dental visits easier for people with ASD.  Some of the things that you can do include:

• Start a dental routine early and make sure to brush and floss regularly.
• Use toothpaste with fluoride to help prevent cavities.
• Visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning.
• Make sure to schedule appointments at a time when the patient is less likely to be tired or stressed.
• Remember to Always Be Patient –  People with ASD often have difficulty understanding and communicating, so it is important to always be patient.

Itani Dental is here to help you with special needs dentistry every step of the way. Schedule an appointment with us today! We’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your unique needs and helps you achieve your goals. Contact us today to get started!