Effect of an Audio Tactile Performance Technique for Visually Impaired Children on Their Oral Health Status

Background: It is difficult to treat visually impaired children's teeth, and extensive treatment may require sedation and/or general anesthesia. Therefore, the focus should be on prevention of disease. Audio Tactile Performance technique is a specialized method aimed at educating children with vision impairment about mouth hygiene. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an audio tactile performance technique for visually impaired children on their oral health status. Method: Pre-experimental research design was carried out at Al-Noor and Al-Amal School for the Blind, Mansoura City, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt, on 98 children who always attend school. Using four tools for data collection: a structured interview questionnaire sheet, a tooth brushing skills checklist, an Oral Assessment Guide, and assessment of satisfaction about audio tactile performance technique. Results: Before applying ATP technique, the majority of visually impaired children had a poor level of total knowledge, all children were unskilled in tooth brushing, and the minority were without oral problems. Post applying ATP technique, the majority of visually impaired children had an average level of total knowledge, the majority were skilled in tooth brushing, more than one third was without oral problems, and more than three quadrants were very satisfied with ATP technique. Conclusion: The oral health of visually impaired children was positively affected after applying ATP technique. Recommendation: Engage ATP technique programs as a health educational method for visually impaired children.