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Abstract The present study was carried out over a period of 4 months. The study sample consisted of thirty autistic children attending rehabilitation center of ASD children in Benghazi, Libya and parallel control group , which consisted of thirty non autistic healthy children selected from relatives of the autistic patients. Personal and dental data were collected using a questionnaire which included demographic data of the child and parents, medical history, dental history, dietary habits, parent’s ability to predict cooperation of their children during dental examination and their expectations and acceptance of management techniques that can be used with the child and self injurious behaviors. The behavior of each child was assessed by means of the Franklʼ s scale. Extra oral examination included assessment of scars, evidence of trauma to the head and neck, hands and fingers. Intra oral examination included dental caries experience was assessed according to DMFT and dmft indices . Oral hygiene was assessed according to Silness and Loe plaque index, gingival condition was assessed according to Loe and Silness Gingival index. Bruxism assessment was based on the attrition shown on enamel surfaces of all teeth. Infections involving teeth and soft tissues, eruption pattern, developmental dental anomalies and oral injuries were all assessed clinically . Although parents had generally good educational level, they gave less attention to dental problems and their treatment. Half of the autistic patients were on medication that included antidepressants and anticonvulsants. Significant difference existed between both groups regarding their visits to dental clinics and their ability to find a dentist. Parents of autistic reported that it was very difficult for them to locate a dentist willing to treat their children. All of autistic and non autistic children received dental care in private dental clinics and most of them were treated by general practitioners. Significant differences existed between both groups in tooth brushing and use of tooth paste. |