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Research ArticleResearch

Oral Care Experiences of Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Lauren B. Mirsky, Ellen J. Rogo and JoAnn R. Gurenlian
American Dental Hygienists' Association August 2021, 95 (4) 41-50;
Lauren B. Mirsky
Clinician for the Ketchikan Indian Community and a graduate of the Idaho State University Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program at Idaho State University; Pocatello, ID, USA.
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  • For correspondence: mirslaur@isu.edu
Ellen J. Rogo
Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Dental Hygiene at Idaho State University; Pocatello, ID, USA.
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JoAnn R. Gurenlian
Professor and former Graduate Program Director at Idaho State University; Pocatello, ID, USA.
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Abstract

Purpose: Individuals with autism need oral health care providers who understand their sensitivities and are responsive to their oral health care needs. The purpose of this study was to understand the oral health care experiences and needs of young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Methods: A qualitative descriptive research design was used and young adults with ASD were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions were conducted and audio-recorded. Pseudonyms were used to protect confidentiality. Interviews were transcribed and data were analyzed simultaneously at the time of data collection. Open coding and axial coding were used to create common categories. Validity was established using investigator triangulation and member checks.

Results: Fifteen individuals (ten males and five females) met the inclusion criteria and participated in the study. Participants revealed a range of feelings related to their oral care experiences from positive to neutral to negative. Participants identified likes and dislikes in regard to dental hygiene and dental treatment as well as daily self-care practices. Individuals reported that improvements in communication were needed; some indicated not wanting to disclose their ASD diagnosis with their oral care providers. Multiple auditory, visual, and tactile sensory challenges were experienced while waiting in the reception area and during the provision of oral health care treatment. Participants made recommendations to improve oral health care experiences.

Conclusions: Results from this study offered insight into the oral care experiences of young adults with ASD and the challenges they encounter. Additional research is needed to further explore this phenomenon from the perspective of non-verbal individuals with ASD and from the standpoint of oral health care professionals who are working with young adults with developmental disabilities.

  • autism spectrum disorder
  • young adults
  • oral care
  • dental hygiene care
  • access to care
  • perceptions
  • qualitative research
  • Received June 24, 2020.
  • Accepted December 14, 2020.
  • Copyright © 2021 The American Dental Hygienists’ Association

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American Dental Hygienists' Association: 95 (4)
American Dental Hygienists' Association
Vol. 95, Issue 4
August 2021
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Oral Care Experiences of Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Lauren B. Mirsky, Ellen J. Rogo, JoAnn R. Gurenlian
American Dental Hygienists' Association Aug 2021, 95 (4) 41-50;

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Oral Care Experiences of Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Lauren B. Mirsky, Ellen J. Rogo, JoAnn R. Gurenlian
American Dental Hygienists' Association Aug 2021, 95 (4) 41-50;
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Keywords

  • autism spectrum disorder
  • young adults
  • oral care
  • dental hygiene care
  • access to care
  • perceptions
  • qualitative research

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