Journal of Scientific Dentistry

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VOLUME 13 , ISSUE 1 ( January-June, 2023 ) > List of Articles

SURVEY

Knowledge and Perception on Autism among Dental Students: A Cross-sectional Study

Merlin Maria, Sudhakar Ramalingam, Shabana Fathima, Priyadharshini R Amirtha, P Nitheash

Keywords : Autism, Behavioral management, Bruxism, Children, Cross-sectional study, Dental problems

Citation Information : Maria M, Ramalingam S, Fathima S, Amirtha PR, Nitheash P. Knowledge and Perception on Autism among Dental Students: A Cross-sectional Study. 2023; 13 (1):33-35.

DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10083-1035

License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Published Online: 14-07-2023

Copyright Statement:  Copyright © 2023; The Author(s).


Abstract

Introduction: Autism spectrum disease (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that begins at birth or during the first 18 months of life characterized by abnormalities in social interactions and communications and limited, repetitive behavior. Nonspecific neurological symptoms may be noted in many people with ASD such as lack of motor coordination, delayed development of hand dominance, and poor muscle tone. Dental and periodontal diseases can be compromised for children with ASD due to damaging oral habits such as bruxism, tongue thrusting, lip biting, and self-injurious behavior. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted through a random sample of 50 undergraduate dental students with 11 close-ended questions through online survey form. The result summarizes that all the students have knowledge about autism. About 100% of the study population are aware about autism. About 80% of the population showed awareness of the techniques of the dental therapies. About 86% of the population had the knowledge of oral manifestations of psychoactive drugs or anticonvulsants.


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