Visual Pedagogy and Manual Toothbrushing: Participants in this arm will use a manual toothbrush with caregiver support. Visual pedagogy resources will include printed PECS cards illustrating each step of toothbrushing and tactile sensory panels simulating toothbrush bristles, toothpaste texture, and dental floss. Caregivers will be instructed to use these materials daily at home for 3 weeks to improve comprehension, adherence, and cooperation in children with ASD.
Study summary
This randomized clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of an AI-enabled electric toothbrush and visual pedagogy materials in improving oral hygiene among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study compares plaque control, gingival health, and adherence between children using a manual toothbrush with visual pedagogy support and those using an AI-enabled electric toothbrush with app-based monitoring.
Eligibility
Sex
ALL
Min age
5 Years
Max age
13 Years
Healthy volunteers
Accepted
Inclusion Criteria:Children aged 5-13 years with a prior diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) level 1 , 2 or 3 confirmed by a neuropediatrician.
Child must be accompanied by a primary caregiver (≥18 years old) responsible for daily oral hygiene.
Caregiver must have access to a smartphone or computer to interact with the digital platform.
Written informed consent (TCLE) from the caregiver and assent (TALE) from the child.
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Exclusion Criteria:Severe systemic medical conditions that contraindicate participation in clinical oral evaluations.
Children with advanced periodontal disease or other oral conditions requiring urgent dental treatment.
Caregivers who are unable or unwilling to use basic digital platforms (smartphone, tablet, or computer).
Families who decline participation at any stage of the study.
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Primary outcome measure(s)
Change in Plaque Index (Simplified Oral Hygiene Index - Greene & Vermillion) — Baseline, Week 3, Week 6 Difference in gingival health between baseline and follow-up, assessed using the Löe and Silness Gingival Index. Higher scores indicate worse gingival condition.
Trial sites (1)
Facility
City
Region
Status
School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto - University of São Paulo (FORP-USP)
This page summarises publicly available registry data for informational purposes — not medical advice. Eligibility is determined by each study team; patients should discuss participation with their clinician.
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