"We all need to be advocates for autism; it is a quality of life issue, but it also is  an access to care issue, something with which we are all familiar. Take baby steps in treating these individuals. There is a quote by Thomas Edison that I like to share with dental professionals who decide to take on the role of caregiver for patients and families who are affected by autism: ‘Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.’ Be persistent. It will pay off in more ways than you could have imagined.” - Karen Raposa, RDH, mother of a child with autism

Karen’s tips

For parents

✽ Use a picture board so the child can visualize his/her day, and use it as a schedule. An example would be a picture board in the bathroom with a picture of a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a clock, with the reward (in Tommy’s case, music) at the end.

✽ Bring the child’s favorite things to the office, such as headphones or a light up toy. Use a picture board. Tommy carries around a picture book to help remind him of his schedule. In some cases where he feels comfortable, a picture book is no longer necessary.

For professionals

✽ Allow the parent to work with you.

✽ Learn from the parents, and be willing to coach them on home care skills.

✽ Take small steps.

✽ Remember that the child may not be able to communicate pain, and may have a higher pain threshold.

✽ Use fluoride varnish, it is easier to use and there is no fear of ingestion.

✽ Get educated!

Visit www.autism-society.org to take Autism 101, a free online course that covers the autism spectrum of disorders, treatment options, treatment assistance, transition to adulthood, and more. In just 30 minutes you’ll be better informed and better able to understand the needs of these special patients. You will also be able to download a certificate of completion for your personal records.

✽ Educate!

The National Autism Association developed a PowerPoint presentation entitled, “Destroying the Myths of Autism.” You can download this free resource for use in your community to help raise awareness of autism and other related disorders. Go to www.nationalautismassociation.org.

✽✽More Resources

http://www.autism.org/

http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/autism/detail_autism.htm

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/autism/complete-publication.shtml

http://www.autisminfo.com

http://www.behavior.org

http://www.autism.com/

http://www.autismspeaks.org/