Annals and Essences of Dentistry
Open Access
ISSN: 0975-8798, 0976-156X
ISSN: 0975-8798, 0976-156X
Israa F. Arab
Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Saudi Arabia
Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Ann Essence Dent
Abstract: (ASD) refers to a group of complex neurodevelopment disorders characterized by repetitive and characteristic patterns of behavior and difficulties with social communication and interaction. It is the most common condition of developmental disorders (2nd most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder among children). Scientists are not certain what causes autism, but it’s likely that both genetics & environment play a role. Autism was 1st described in 1943 by Leo Kanner. He presented 11 children whose behavior was different from others. Kanner suspected an inborn feature which prevented their regular social contacts. It is estimated that worldwide 1 in 160 children has an ASD. Over the past 50 years, the prevalence of ASD appears to be increasing globally. With the high prevalence of children with autism, dentists are likely to have one or more children with this disorder in their practice. Compassion must exhibit as we provide care to patients with autism, as well as to their family members and caregivers. The dental management of a child with ASD requires in-depth understanding of the autistic behavioral profile. Attempts should be made by parents, general dentists and periodontists to teach oral hygiene methods to these patients by constant repetition and patience. Our expectations however, must be tempered by the realization that the patient’s preventive dental needs constitute only a small component of their total need.
Dr. Israa Arab has completed her bachelor’s degree in Dentistry BDS and masters in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics from Riyadh Elm University, Riyadh, KSA. Currently working at Prince Sultan Military Medical City as an orthodontic registrar.