Oral Health Challenges and Hygiene Practices in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-sectional Study from Tunisia.

This study looked at dental health in 48 children with autism in Tunisia. It found that many children had poor dental hygiene (47%), tooth decay (37%), and had never seen a dentist (60%). One-third didn't brush their teeth regularly. The research shows children with autism face significant challenges maintaining good oral health and accessing dental care, highlighting the need for better support and education for families.

This cross-sectional study examined oral health practices and dental conditions in 48 Tunisian children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Using caregiver questionnaires and clinical examinations, researchers assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding oral hygiene. The study found significant challenges: 46.6% had poor oral hygiene, 36.6% had untreated dental caries, and 60% had never visited a dentist. Additionally, 33.3% did not brush teeth regularly, with gingival inflammation and parafunctional habits varying by ASD severity.

The findings highlight substantial gaps in oral health care access and hygiene practices among children with ASD in Tunisia, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and enhanced caregiver support.

Findings indicate urgent need for autism-specific oral health programs including caregiver education, adapted dental care protocols, and improved access to dental services. Healthcare providers should prioritize oral health screening and develop individualized hygiene strategies for children with ASD.

Small sample size (n=48) limits generalizability. Cross-sectional design prevents causal inferences. Single geographic location (Tunisia) may not represent other populations. No comparison group included. Reliance on caregiver-reported data may introduce bias.

This study aimed to assess oral hygiene practices, dental conditions, and access to dental care among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Tunisia. This descriptive cross-sectional study included 48 children diagnosed with ASD. Data were obtained through a structured questionnaire completed by caregivers and a clinical oral examination. The questionnaire comprised 25 items divided into three domains: (1) Knowledge (awareness of oral hygiene importance, fluoride use, recognition of dental caries, and regular dental checkups); (2) Attitude (motivation for oral care, caregiver perception of dental visits, and beliefs about prevention); (3) Practices (tooth brushing frequency, technique, use of toothpaste, dental attendance, and dietary habits).

The clinical examination assessed oral hygiene status, presence of untreated caries, gingival condition, and parafunctional oral habits. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Of the 48 children included in the study, 23% (= 11) were classified at the severe end of the autism spectrum, while the remaining 77% (= 37) presented with mild to moderate forms of ASD. Poor oral hygiene was observed in 46.6% (= 14) of the children, untreated dental caries were present in 36.6% (= 11), and 60% (= 18) had never visited a dentist.

Additionally, 33.3% (= 10) of the children did not brush their teeth regularly. The presence of gingival inflammation and parafunctional habits was also noted but varied across severity levels of ASD. The study reveals considerable challenges regarding oral hygiene behaviors, dental health status, and access to dental care among children with ASD in Tunisia. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted oral health education programs and enhanced caregiver involvement to improve oral health outcomes in this population.

A better understanding of the specific oral health needs of children with ASD is essential for tailoring dental care protocols. Focused caregiver training and adapted dental approaches are recommended to promote improved oral hygiene practices and overall oral health in children with ASD. How to cite this article: Ben Hadj Khalfa A, Boukhris H, Ayari G,. Oral Health Challenges and Hygiene Practices in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Cross-sectional Study from Tunisia.

J Contemp Dent Pract 2025;26(6):581-586.