Skip to main content
2025 AAPD Annual Meeting Main banner
Cheng Crowns
Information & Legend
This session is not in your schedule.
This session is in your schedule. Click again to remove it.
Presentation Icons
Ticket Required
Ticket Required
Sold Out
Sold Out
Recorded Session
Recorded Session
Rate ePoster

Special Health Care Needs

198 - Assessing Parents' Experiences in a Dental Desensitization Program for Pediatric Patients with Autism

Friday, May 23, 2025
4:40 PM - 5:00 PM MDT
Has Audio

    Presenting Author(s)

  • Rand Khasawneh, DDS MPH (she/her/hers)

    Resident
    University of California - San Francisco-3yr
    UCSF Pediatric Dentistry
    San Francisco, California, United States

    • Research Mentor(s)

  • Jean Star, DDS, MPH

    Assistant Professor
    University of California, San Francisco
    University of California San Francisco
    San Francisco, California, United States

    • Program Director(s)

  • TL

    Thuan Q. Le, DDS, PhD

    Interim Program Director
    University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract:

Purpose: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encounter significant barriers to dental care due to sensory sensitivities, communication challenges, and anxiety. The UCSF Pediatric Dentistry Autism Clinic addresses these barriers through tailored approaches, including initial video visits, sensory-friendly adaptations, and the support of an Applied Behavior Analyst (ABA) therapist. This program aims to improve patient comfort and cooperation, reduce anxiety, and prepare children with autism for lifelong positive oral health.

Methods: This study investigates parents’ experiences and perceptions of the clinic’s impact on their child’s dental care. Semi-structured interviews with parents of clinic patients were conducted to gather qualitative data on satisfaction, observed behavioral changes, and overall impressions of the program. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically.


Results: The results from the study indicate that parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) found the dental desensitization program beneficial in increasing their child’s comfort with dental care and improving tolerance for procedures. Key themes identified from parent feedback included the importance of individualized care, the value of provider patience and flexibility, and the benefit of sensory-sensitive environments. Parents emphasized the role of consistent and compassionate staff, tailored strategies to meet their child’s unique needs, and clear communication throughout the process. They also noted significant improvements in their child’s behavior and reduced anxiety around dental visits. However, some challenges remained, such as scheduling difficulties and travel distance. In conclusion, these findings highlight the potential for similar programs to be successfully implemented in other clinics and healthcare facilities, and reinforce the importance of a multidisciplinary approach—integrating dental professionals, behavioral specialists, and caregivers—in effectively supporting patients with autism.