An interdisciplinary clinical framework for managing children with autism spectrum disorder in paediatric dentistry

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently present with behavioural, sensory, communicative and nutritional challenges that complicate dental care. Although oral health difficulties in this population are well recognised, clinically relevant evidence is often reported in isolated domains, limiting its translation into paediatric dental practice.

This integrative review synthesised literature published between 2010 and 2025 from PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar. Evidence from paediatric dentistry and related disciplines, including psychology, occupational therapy, nutrition and autism-specific interventions, was thematically synthesised to identify clinically relevant strategies.

Effective dental management extends beyond conventional behaviour guidance. Key domains include individualised behavioural strategies, structured communication supports, sensory-adapted dental environments, caregiver-centred preparation and consideration of nutritional and systemic factors. Recent evidence, including randomised and controlled studies, supports Sensory Adapted Dental Environments (SADE), video modelling and visual pedagogical approaches as promising strategies to reduce distress and improve treatment tolerance in children with ASD. Nutritional selectivity, gastrointestinal disturbances and micronutrient deficiencies may further influence oral health risk.

A holistic and interdisciplinary approach can improve treatment tolerance, cooperation and preventive outcomes in children with ASD.

Paediatric dentists should integrate sensory adaptation, visual supports, caregiver collaboration and dietary and medical assessment into routine care.