Parental perception of problems related to dental care access of children with autism spectrum disorders: a qualitative study

Relevance. Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are known to have special dental needs. However, not all dentists are ready to provide qualified assistance. When choosing treatment goals and strategies, dentists often consider parental perceptions of the treatment process and its effectiveness. Aim. The study aimed to study parental priorities and satisfaction with dental care for children with autism spectrum disorders. 

Materials and Methods. The study involved parents of 65 children aged 4 to 17 years with a confirmed diagnosis of ASD. The main group included 33 children with ASD; the comparison group consisted of 32 neurotypical children. The parents' survey provided information about dental care satisfaction criteria and parental perception of their children's dental problems. Differences in two independent samples were comparatively analysed using the nonparametric Mann – Whitney U-test, and the attribute occurrence rate was determined using the χ2 test. The Spearman correlation coefficient (r) determined the relationship between variables. Differences were statistically significant at p < 0,05.  

Results. The criteria for dental care satisfaction of parents of children with ASD and neurotypical children differed significantly. A strong correlation was established (r = 0.82) between comorbid mental pathology in a child with ASD and satisfaction with dental treatment. The study found a stable positive correlation between "the incorporation of the “special interests” of a child with ASD in the process of interaction with a doctor” and “the level of cooperation of a child with ASD during treatment in a previous clinic” (r = 0.76), “the comfort of treatment conditions for a child with ASD” and “the level of parents' satisfaction with dental treatment in an earlier clinic” (r = 0.78). 

Conclusion. A family-centred approach can help improve treatment planning and achievement of dental health in children with autism. 

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