Children with sensory differences often face unique challenges when it comes to oral health. Sensory processing disorders (SPDs) can cause heightened sensitivities to textures, sounds, and even the sensations in the mouth, making daily tasks like brushing and flossing difficult. Understanding the connection between sensory processing differences and oral habits is key for caregivers and dental professionals in providing effective support.
At McLevin Dental, we are dedicated to helping children with sensory differences maintain healthy oral hygiene habits while respecting their unique needs. In this blog, well explore common oral habits in children with sensory differences, the impact these habits can have on their oral health, and how caregivers can provide support.
Sensory Processing Disorders and Oral Sensitivities
Sensory processing disorders can manifest in various ways, leading to either hypersensitivity (overreacting to stimuli) or hyposensitivity (underreacting to stimuli). Children with SPD may have a strong aversion to certain textures, tastes, or sensations, which can make traditional dental care practices challenging.
Hypersensitivity:
For children with hypersensitivity, even routine oral care tasks can feel overwhelming. The sensation of a toothbrush in the mouth may be too uncomfortable, and the taste or texture of toothpaste may be intolerable. These sensitivities may cause children to avoid brushing their teeth altogether, resulting in poor oral hygiene and an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
Hyposensitivity:
On the other hand, children with hyposensitivity may not recognize the discomfort of not brushing their teeth properly. They may fail to notice food debris or plaque buildup, which can lead to neglecting oral hygiene. These children might also have difficulty distinguishing between sensations in the mouth, making it harder for them to feel the need to brush their teeth.
Common Oral Habits in Children with Sensory Differences
Children with sensory processing disorders often develop coping mechanisms to manage their oral discomfort. These habits can impact their oral health, and its essential for caregivers and dental professionals to recognize and address these patterns.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism):
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children with sensory differences. It is often triggered by stress, anxiety, or an overreaction to certain sensory experiences. Bruxism can cause tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches. For children with SPD, it can also be a self-soothing mechanism, providing a sense of relief or calming sensations.
Chewing Non-Food Objects:
Children with sensory sensitivities may chew on non-food objects such as pencils, clothing, or toys. This behavior is often a result of seeking oral stimulation. While this behavior may provide sensory relief, it can lead to dental problems, such as broken teeth, damage to braces, or other oral injuries.
Avoidance of Brushing or Toothpaste:
As mentioned earlier, children with hypersensitivity may resist brushing due to discomfort. This resistance can manifest as refusal to use toothpaste, aversion to the toothbrush, or difficulty tolerating the sensation of brushing. Without intervention, this can lead to poor oral hygiene and an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
Sucking or Biting:
Some children may engage in sucking or biting behaviors as a way to regulate sensory input. While this may provide comfort, prolonged sucking on thumbs or pacifiers can affect the alignment of teeth and the development of the jaw. Its important to address these habits early to avoid long-term dental issues.
Strategies for Encouraging Healthy Oral Habits
Managing oral health for children with sensory differences requires patience, creativity, and a supportive approach. Here are some strategies that can help encourage positive oral hygiene habits while respecting the childs sensory needs:
1. Use Sensory-Friendly Oral Care Products
Selecting the right dental products can make a significant difference. Choose soft-bristled toothbrushes with a comfortable, non-slip handle. Some toothbrushes are designed with sensory sensitivities in mind, featuring gentle bristles and rounded heads that are less likely to cause discomfort.
When it comes to toothpaste, consider flavor-free or mildly flavored options that are less likely to overwhelm a child with sensory sensitivities. Toothpaste with a smoother texture may also be easier for children to tolerate. Non-foaming toothpaste can be another great option, as it often has a milder taste and less of a bubbly feeling in the mouth.
2. Gradual Desensitization Techniques
For children with hypersensitivity, its important to gradually desensitize them to the brushing experience. Start with simply allowing them to hold the toothbrush and explore it with their hands. Next, gently introduce the sensation of brushing on their lips or the outside of their mouth before moving to the teeth. Gradually increase the length of time spent brushing, and offer positive reinforcement for small steps of progress.
3. Create a Routine and Stick to It
Consistency is key when establishing good oral hygiene habits. Create a predictable and calm routine for tooth brushing that happens at the same time each day. This will help the child know what to expect and reduce any anxiety or resistance. Use a timer to help make brushing a fun, predictable task, and consider incorporating sensory-friendly distractions, such as a favorite song or a favorite toy, during the brushing process.
4. Provide Oral Stimulation Alternatives
For children who engage in chewing behaviors, providing sensory-friendly alternatives like chewy tubes or teething toys can help redirect the behavior. These items are designed to satisfy oral sensory needs in a safe and controlled way, reducing the risk of dental damage.
5. Use Visual and Social Stories
For children who may have trouble understanding the importance of oral hygiene, visual aids, and social stories can help make the process more understandable. Create a simple social story that explains the steps of brushing in a fun and engaging way, and incorporate pictures or illustrations that show the benefits of good oral hygiene.
6. Consult with an Occupational Therapist
An occupational therapist can be an invaluable resource when helping a child with sensory processing issues. They can work with the child to develop sensory integration techniques and strategies to manage their sensitivities. Occupational therapists can also suggest other tools and techniques that may assist with the childs oral hygiene routine.
The Role of Dental Professionals
At McLevin Dental, we understand that every child is unique, and we are committed to providing personalized care for children with sensory differences. Our team of dental professionals is experienced in working with children who have sensory processing disorders, and we are here to support families in managing oral health challenges.
We offer a gentle, patient-centered approach to dental care, making dental visits as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We also provide a range of sensory-friendly dental products and treatments that can help children with sensory differences maintain healthy teeth and gums.
If you have a child with sensory sensitivities, dont hesitate to reach out to McLevin Dental. Our team is here to provide expert care and guidance in helping your child maintain optimal oral health.