Characteristics and dental experiences of autistic children in Saudi Arabia: cross-sectional study

J Autism Dev Disord. 2011 Dec;41(12):1629-34. doi: 10.1007/s10803-011-1188-y.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to report base line information about characteristics, and dental experiences of a group of autistic children in three major cities of Saudi Arabia. Most of the children (76.2%) included in the study were diagnosed with autism before the age of 5 years. More than half of the children (53.7%) had no previous dental experience while 33% were treated under general anesthesia. The American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendations should be applied in Saudi Arabia to help improve the average age of diagnosis and make a positive effect on children with autism and their families. Regular visits to dental clinics should be recommended to all families with autistic children to reduce dental disease.

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesia, General
  • Autistic Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Autistic Disorder / psychology
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Dental Care for Children*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Saudi Arabia