The ToothPASTE study

The National Institute for Health Research are wanting to find out how they can support autistic children have good dental health. 

They want to speak to you about your experience of helping your child/sibling/grandchild with tooth brushing, eating and going to the dentist. (whats works what doesn't). 

National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)

Project: toothPASTE -

Why is this research important?

Tooth decay is a major health problem. In England, a quarter of five-year-old have tooth decay. For autistic children, especially those with little or no verbal communication, tooth decay can lead to self-harm, impaired sleep, and disrupted routines. Autistic children find it more difficult to go to a dentist or accept dental treatment. Frequently their dental treatment is provided under general anaesthetic.

Tooth decay is preventable. Twice daily tooth brushing with fluoride toothpaste and limiting sugary foods and drinks helps prevent tooth decay. These good habits should start in early childhood. For families of autistic children, establishing good habits can be complex, owing to extra challenges, such as communication, altered sensitivity and rigid behaviour patterns.

What we plan to do:

This research is aligned with the NHS long-term plan, with a clear emphasis on primary prevention, reducing health inequalities and integrating oral health into early-years services. We will work with families of young autistic children and the professionals who care for them. Together we will explore the barriers and facilitators to good oral health habits and design a support package. This package will help families to be confident in looking after their child’s teeth. This study will identify what support families need, which early-years professionals could provide it and the best times to provide this support.

Outcome:

We will summarise our results in a short video and present our findings at conferences and in publications. We will work with professionals, the National Autistic Society, Autistica and government bodies to publicise our findings and discuss future plans. Longer-term, we will test the support package in a feasibility trial This will check that it is acceptable to families, feasible for professionals to deliver and can prevent decay.