Behavior Modification Techniques in Pediatric Dental Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review

Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence among children in the United States has significantly increased in the past decade. Neurodivergent patients may require behavioral modifications in the dental operatory due to their sensitivity to changes in environments and routines, which can lead to resistance, tantrums, and increased dental anxiety. This study aims to find and categorize effective, non-pharmacological techniques by which we can increase compliance in the outpatient dental setting for children with ASD. Methods: This study was designed and conducted following PRISMA standards outlined in the JBI guidelines. Type of intervention, duration of intervention, study populations and number of subjects, aim of the study, methodology, outcome measures, results, and study limitations were extracted from a set of screened studies that met our inclusion criteria. Pursuant to Arksey and O’Malley guidelines, a thematic content analysis approach identified common and distinctive themes when treating patients with ASD in the dental clinic. Results: Fourteen articles were identified as appropriate for inclusion in the present review. Themes relating to treating patients with ASD were organized, discussed, and theoretically classified by the authors to facilitate comparisons. Through a thematic analysis, papers were classified into three categories based on the interventions used: behavior guidance, technology, and environmental modifications. Conclusions: This analysis highlighted non-pharmacological techniques that reduced anxiety and increased patient compliance in patients with ASD. Practical Implications: By mapping and categorizing the range of existing strategies, we can recommend a more structured approach for implementation into dental practice.