Fatores associados à cárie dentária em indivíduos com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA): estudo transversal

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined as the occurrence of persistent deficiencies in social interaction and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviors, interests and activities. Its manifestations have a broad spectrum and may present different levels of support. The association of tooth decay and ASD has been attributed to food selectivity combined with a cariogenic diet, the maintenance of food in the mouth for a longer time and the severity of autism. Scientific evidence on the association of dental caries with ASD characteristics is limited and divergent. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the association of factors related to the severity of ASD and dietary changes on the experience of tooth decay in individuals with ASD. The study design is cross-sectional. The sample was made up of individuals published with ASD (≥ 4 years), of both sexes, assisted by the Association of Parents and Friends of the Exceptional (APAE – Santa Maria, RS). Demographic, socioeconomic data, behavioral factors, eating habits and degree of support for the individual with ASD were collected from interviews with parents/guardians. Clinical examination was carried out at APAE facilities. Dental caries was assessed using the DMFT/dmft indices as recommended by the World Health Organization. Clinical variables were collected on all teeth (except 3rd molars) by trained and calibrated researchers. Cooperation in the dental examination of participants with ASD was assessed using the Frankl Behavioral Scale. Analyzes were performed in JAMOVI, version 1.6.23. A significance level of 5% was used. In total, 61 individuals with ASD participated in the study and, of these, it was possible to perform a caries examination on 56. Dietary changes within this group of individuals' domains, specifically food refusal, were associated with the presence of cavities (p= 0.01 ), as well as the age of the individuals in the sample (p=0.04). Considering that autism is a broad spectrum condition, strategies for interaction and multidisciplinary care with dentistry can contribute to the prevention of tooth decay and improve the physical and emotional well-being of individuals with ASD.