ESTRATÉGIAS PERSONALIZADAS DE ATENDIMENTO ODONTOLÓGICO INFANTIL PARA PACIENTES COM TEA

Abstract

This article explores the effects of personalized strategies in
pediatric dental treatment for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
(ASD), emphasizing the importance of empathetic and inclusive
approaches to enhance the quality of care. The lack of specialized
training often leads to inadequate treatments, underscoring the need
for more humane and sensitive practices. The theoretical framework is
based on historical milestones that shaped the understanding of
autism, such as the works of Leo Kanner, who identified the first
clinical signs of autism, and Hans Asperger, who recognized a milder
form of the disorder, later called Asperger's Syndrome. The study
validated the hypothesis that personalized approaches improve dental
care for patients with ASD, emphasizing the importance of careful
administration of anesthesia, the use of techniques such as "tell-showdo," and preliminary consultations with parents or caregivers.
Strategies like positive reinforcement and systematic desensitization
help reduce anxiety, promote cooperation, and establish a positive
relationship with oral health. Visual aids, such as photo albums of the
dental office, help familiarize the child with the environment, making it
less intimidating. The goal is to create less traumatic environments
that respect the sensory, behavioral, and communicative needs of
children with ASD, using features like quiet spaces, soft lighting, and
headphones. Appointments at favorable times and regular breaks help
avoid sensory overload. These efforts result in more effective
treatments and long-term healthy habits, while also fostering the
development of personalized protocols, dental team training, and
constant communication with caregivers, providing empathetic care
that respects each child's individual needs and promotes a positive and
humanized experience.