When we brush our own teeth we know how hard or soft to brush, where we feel sensitivity, how to miss the gums etc. To have someone else shove the toothbrush into your mouth and brush your teeth without you controlling it, can be really discomforting especially to a child with ASD who have strong sensory sensitivities. So when we start brushing the teeth of a child on the spectrum first and foremost it is important to validate that brushing causes discomfort to him or her and we understand it. Here are some tips that could be used to make brushing easier.
- Use a soft toothbrush or a finger toothbrush that is very gentle on the gums to start with. Or try a soft washcloth over your finger to rub the teeth and gums instead of a toothbrush if your child is very resistant.
- Many children with oral sensitivity prefer a battery-operated toothbrush.
- Experiment with different toothpastes to find out which the child likes the best. Use the appropriate amount of toothpaste. Or start with just water if your child dislikes the taste of toothpaste. Start using toothpaste after a few washes.
- Fix the number of strokes you’ll use per side (top, bottom, left and right), counting each stroke aloud. Counting adds a measure of predictability to the brushing, serves as a distractor and indicates to the child that it will end soon.
- Work slowly and talk your child through the process. Describe which side is next.
- Pause briefly after brushing each side to give your child a moment to get ready for the next side.
- Reinforce the behaviour with a strong reward when you’re done, like marking on a chart each time he brushes, and offering a special treat when they do it five times consecutively.
- Once your child is comfortable with brushing, have fun! Brush your teeth with them or brush heirs while they brush yours! 🙂
Drina Fernandes is a Family Advisor at Sethu