Autism spectrum disorder and paediatric dentistry: A narrative overview of intervention strategy and introduction of an innovative technological intervention method

Authors

  • S Pagano Odontostomatological University Centre (C.O.U), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia
  • G Lombardo Odontostomatological University Centre (C.O.U), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia
  • M Coniglio Odontostomatological University Centre (C.O.U), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia
  • S Donnari Atlas Centre, Perugia
  • V Canonico Atlas Centre, Perugia
  • C Antonini Odontostomatological University Centre (C.O.U), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia
  • G Lomurno Department of Medicine and Surgery, S. Maria della Misericordia Hospital, University of Perugia, Perugia
  • S Cianetti Odontostomatological University Centre (C.O.U), Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23804/ejpd.2022.23.01.10

Keywords:

Autism Spectrum Disorder, Paediatric dentistry, Operative dentistry, Dental treatment, Oral health

Abstract

AIM: When treating patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) the doctor-patient relationship can be very challenging. The dentist is often forced to work under general anaesthesia or conscious sedation. Children with ASD are patients with an increased risk of caries due to poor oral hygiene, a cariogenic diet and the use of xerostomal drugs. In this work therapeutic strategies used to treat this kind of patients are evaluated and a new method to treat children with ASD is presented in order to increase awareness about this condition in the dental field. METHODS: The Atlas Center (a non-profit organisation in Peurgia, Italy) has developed a software, called paINTeraction, that allows these special children to immerse themselves in a virtual reality with the help of an operator. Through this system the child can explore the dental office (and all its sounds and noises) before the real dental visit, thus connecting to the dental professional, achieving greater compliance and reducing anxiety. CONCLUSION: paINTeraction, with the use of digital technology tools, may be particularly well suited to introduce patients to the therapeutic environment, particularly in the dental setting.