Tooth Plaque and Decay

Hi,

Looking for some advice on my daughters oral hygiene. She is 8yrs old Autistic with PDA. She really struggles with brushing her teeth, she had a wobbly tooth on one side of her mouth and wouldn’t brush that area for months, I have tried every toothpaste, specialist tooth brush, mouthwash and tooth water flossed available to no avail, the plaque is so built up on that side of her mouth I’m worried she will end up in severe pain with tooth decay. I can’t even get her through the doors at the dentist either.

I’m so worried it keeps me awake some nights as I feel like a terrible parent. Any advice greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Chloe Mod 3 months ago

Hello MrsTys1026

Thank you for sharing this with the Community. I am sorry to hear that your are struggling with your oral care for your daughter. You may find it useful to have a look at our information on ways in which you may be able to support your daughter to a dentist visit:

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/physical-health/going-to-the-dentist/parents

You may also find it useful to have a look at the following information on demand avoidance:

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/behaviour/demand-avoidance

I hope this helps,

ChloeMod
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MrsTys1026 3 months ago in reply to profdanger

Thank you for your reply, our Dentist is an amazing guy and I know he would be so kind and patient with my Daughter, the problem is I can’t get her to go in, she has a huge meltdown and it’s unbearable to witness. I really am trying my best I just can’t seem to find something that can help.
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profdanger 3 months ago

Just out of curiosity, since I know this is a thing in the USA, but are there any dentists in your area that specialize with children? That was a life saver for our daughter with Autism. They made the experience fun and exciting, distracted her with television during the process, and rewarded her with a prize at the end, so now she doesn’t fear the dentist.

You’re not a terrible parent, you’re doing the best you can.
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