# Caregivers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in terms of Oral Care Provided to Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

## TL;DR

This study examines how caregivers' knowledge and practices affect oral health care for children with autism, revealing a gap between what they know and what they do.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into the relationship between caregivers' knowledge and oral hygiene practices for children with ASD.

## Key findings

- Most caregivers recognize sugar's harmful effects but still allow frequent sugar consumption.
- High self-efficacy among caregivers correlates with more frequent toothbrushing.
- Correct knowledge about brushing frequency is linked to better oral hygiene practices.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often exhibit similar food-related behaviors, such as excessive sugar consumption, and sensory processing difficulties, which can hinder oral hygiene routines like toothbrushing and increase the risk of cavities or gum problems. Therefore, caregiver involvement in maintaining oral health is crucial. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices reported by caregivers in terms of oral care provided to children diagnosed with ASD between the ages of 5 and 12 years. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, and the participants comprised 72 caregivers of children with ASD enrolled in four therapeutic centers in SLP, Mexico. Data on caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes, and care in terms of oral health, as well as sociodemographic characteristics, were collected through a structured and self-administered questionnaire. Results: Among the caregivers, 85% were women, and 86% recognized sugar as a cariogenic and gingival bleeding as a sign of inflammation. Despite this, over 60% reported frequent sugar consumption, 65.4% supervised toothbrushing, and floss use was minimal. More than half showed high self-efficacy, which correlated with more frequent supervised or autonomous toothbrushing. Caregivers involved in homecare brushed their children’s teeth more often. Correct knowledge of brushing frequency was associated with actual toothbrushing practices (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study highlights a notable gap between caregivers’ knowledge and oral care practices in terms of children with ASD.