Non‐Metric Dental Traits, Dental Caries Experience, Parental Perceptions, and Oral Hygiene Status of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder—A Step Towards Sustainable Smiles

ABSTRACT Background Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is accompanied by poor oral health outcomes for children with ASD. Aim To assess the occurrence of non‐metric dental traits (NMDTs), dental caries experience, parents’ perception, and oral hygiene status of children with ASD. Methodology A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 150 children with ASD and their biological parents. Children with severe sensory or behavioural difficulties who were unable to cooperate for oral examination were excluded. A pre‐validated questionnaire was used to assess parental perception. Oral hygiene index‐Simplified (OHI‐S), Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth index (DMFT) for permanent and primary dentition was used to assess oral hygiene status and dental caries in children with ASD. Non‐metric dental trait (NMDT) was assessed using ASUDAS (Arizona State University Dental Anthropology System). Chi‐square test and multiple linear regression analysis were done. Results Most parents, 126 (84.0%) had a neutral perception score. The mean OHI(S) score for the children with ASD was 1.86 (SD 0.95). The prevalence of dental caries was 16% in deciduous dentition and 48% in permanent dentition. A statistically significant association was observed between palatogingival groove, cusp of Carabelli, and poorer oral hygiene status. Regression analysis showed that children with ASD whose mothers were employed showed a negative association with oral hygiene status ( B = –0.533, p = 0.015). Higher maternal education was associated with lower DMFT scores (DMFT, B = – 1.044, p = 0.040 and for D, B = –1.319, p = 0.003). Conclusion Parents’ perceptions regarding oral health among children with ASD are neutral with both behavioral limitations and oral hygiene practices affecting oral health. This study recommends early NMDTs identification and a multidisciplinary approach involving dental professionals, along with targeted parental education and regular follow‐up, that may improve oral health outcomes.