Today, we’re going to discuss brushing teeth. And the issues that can caused from brushing teeth. We’ll also discuss how we can encourage our children to brush their teeth. Read on to find out more.
Individuals with autism are more likely to be hypersensitive. They will feel things differently to those of your typical non-autistic child. This can include the sensation of having their teeth brushed.
We have been chatting to many families and professionals about the experiences they have with brushing teeth. As well as individuals diagnosed with autism. There is a huge amount of people who find brushing teeth a negative experience. No matter how much we want to make brushing teeth a positive experience. Many of our parents stated they have even restrained their children to brush their teeth before. They stated that this because they worried so much over health and dental issues later on. Parents worry so much about their children, its human nature.
So, we are looking for ways that we can all make teeth brushing a more positive experience. We’ve consulted with a range of different families, individuals and professionals. And, we’ve put together different ways that we can make this time a more enjoyable one. And also to make it less stressful for all involved. We have come up with the following tips/ideas;
- Read a social story (like this one). Social stories are a great, visual tool to use. The reader can actually see and read/listen to what is happening on the pages. It will help them understand what happens during the process of brushing your teeth. Along with what can happen if you don’t brush your teeth.
- Use of a more sensory tooth brush – such as the Fuzzy Brush
- Provide a calm environment for when tooth brushing takes places.
- Have visuals around this area. Especially ones that show the individual what they are going to do. I.e put toothpaste onto the toothbrush etc.
- Have a timer. Many individuals with autism do find situations less stressful if they are able to see how long is left.
- Lots of positive reinforcement/praise for when they are able to complete any of the task. Even if it’s not brushing but just holding the toothbrush. It could be for putting the brush near their mouth. Or even just holding the brush inside their mouth. This is a great way to build up to brushing their teeth. And also getting them used to the feel and taste of the toothpaste and toothbrush.
- Dentists say that it’s beneficial for your child to walk around chewing a toothbrush, with nothing on it. This is better than not brushing their teeth at all. And, this can be a great way to work your way up to introducing toothpaste.
- Different toothpastes have different smells and taste. It could be this causing the issues, rather than the toothbrush. Look for ones with little or no taste- or ones with a taste that they do like.
- Electric toothbrushes can be great if your child can tolerate the sensation/noise/feel. It means they don’t have to work as hard to clean different areas – the electric toothbrush will help them do this. You can have them feel the toothbrush by placing it on their arm/face etc. first so they get used to it. Many children may actually enjoy the sensation of the electric toothbrush.
- Use songs. There’s a great Elmer brushing teeth song on Youtube. Our children love to listen to it when they are brushing their teeth. It also prepares them for what’s about to happen.
- Have someone act as a good role model and brush their teeth the same time as the individual. They can see what’s happening, what to do and have someone to go through it with together.
- There are some great apps available on tablets. They can help children brushing their teeth and come with a variety of aides/prompts.
- Give the individual a reward system. You can have a weekly sticker chart. Then, they get a sticker for each day they brush their teeth. So many stickers = a treat. This could be a trip to their favourite park etc.
- Your Dentist may be able to add sealants.
- Try using warm water out of the tap instead of cold, as sometimes cold water can cause sensory issues.
How do you manage with brushing the teeth of your children? Have you picked up any tricks over the years that may be helpful to other parents?
