
Autism / Autism Spectrum Support Group
Autism is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder which manifests itself in markedly abnormal social interaction, communication ability, patterns of interests, and patterns of behavior. Although the specific etiology of autism is unknown, many researchers suspect that autism results from genetically mediated vulnerabilities to environmental triggers.
Also, inform the dentist about your son and the fact he cannot sit still. They should have something to help him open his mouth.
Promise him if he behaves, that he will be able to get a special treat.
If he is sensitive to loud noises or sights, get ear plugs or sunglasses.
Defiantly go to a ped dentist, that will help.
I hope this helps, good luck!
take headphones for your child and let the staff know that your child has autism...you may have to go back and sit by your child for the first cleaning...some office will let you hold your child..never hurts to ask...and by all means find a good pediatric or family dentist.....and don't forget your sense of humor...children can surprise you.
1. The dentist uses the weighted vests over my legs to calm me and keep me from involuntarily moving.
2. Also, gustatory and tactile defensive reactions... Inserting tools or even looking in the mouth can cause gagging and sensation overload as well as involuntary hacking of spit.
3. Make sure the suction thing is there if giving a shot after a ton of numbing, the tiniest drop on the throat causing choaking and the involuntary hacking of spit. It is not on purpose...it is like a sneeze.
Also, sometimes a light sedative should help...(but be careful to try smaller doses first as autistic people have strong reactions)
Also, send this vid. to your dentist and also watch yourself... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=artQFqd6osQ&eurl=http://chat1autism.wetpaint.com/page/Doctors%2C+Dentists%2C+EMT%2C+hospitals%2C+Firefighters+and+autism...
Luv,
Kris
LOL
We have shopped around and this one by far is the best! Our son can handle cleanings without any sedation, however we have chosen to use it when he needed some extensive dental work done. He did very well under it. We also used read books prior to our sons and daughters first visit to the dentists.
Good luck!
We started taking him just before he turned 4, and he wouldn't have anything at all to do with anyone there. We went back, once a week, slowly getting him used to it. It takes alot of patience. He has to gain their trust. Also, be mindful of the light about the chair. Jonathan couldn't stand to have the light turned on, and his dentist was very understanding of this, so she began keeping a small pocket-sized flashlight in her pocket for him. This way, it didn't bother him at all!
Best of luck to you and your son, and stay relaxed- he'll pick up on your tension.