Developmental Disturbances of Teeth in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - A Cross-sectional Study

Sep 29, 2026

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Developmental disturbances of teeth in children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can affect oral health. Children with these conditions often have behavior and cognitive impairment, while disturbances may arise from environmental, genetic, and systemic influences on odontogenesis. However, their frequency and distribution in ASD and ADHD remain insufficiently studied compared with neurotypical peers. This cross-sectional study compares prevalence and distribution between groups.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

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Pages6

Reading Time15 min

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Abstract

Purpose, Materials and Methods

Results

Conclusion

Introduction

Background on special healthcare needs

Tooth development and developmental disturbances

ORIGINAL RESEARCH Developmental Disturbances of Teeth in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Cross-sectional Study Sushmita Shan1, Kavitha Swaminathan2, Vivek K3, Selvakumar Haridoss4 Received on: 10 March 2025; Accepted on: 21 April 2025; Published on: 05 November 2025 AbstrAct Purpose: Developmental disturbances of teeth in children with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attentiondeficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can significantly impact their oral health. Children with these disorders show behavior and cognitive impairment. Both the disorders are associated with environmental, genetic, and systemic factors that can impact odontogenesis. Although dental anomalies have been reported in children with neurodevelopmental disorders, the frequency and distribution of these disturbances remain insufficiently studied in children with ASD and ADHD, especially in comparison to their neurotypical peers. The study aims to determine and compare the frequency and distribution of developmental dental disturbances in children with ASD and ADHD and neurotypical children. Materials and methods: A total of 673 children in Chennai, aged 3–13, were included in this cross-sectional study. Demographic data and oral examinations were recorded after obtaining informed consent. Statistical analysis included Chi-squared test. Ap-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Children with ASD and ADHD had a significantly higher prevalence of developmental disturbances of teeth (51.6%) compared to controls (22.6%). Anomalies such as hypodontia, peg-shaped laterals, talon’s cusp, and enamel hypoplasia had higher prevalence in the case group than in the control group. Conclusion: Developmental dental abnormalities are more prevalent in children with ASD and ADHD than in neurotypical peers. These findings emphasize the need for early dental screening and interdisciplinary management to address systemic, genetic, and environmental factors influencing odontogenesis. Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Children with special healthcare needs, Developmental disturbances of teeth, Enamel hypoplasia, Neurodevelopmental disorders. International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry (2025): 10.5005/jp-journals-10005-3326 IntroductIon Children with one or more chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional disorders and who require health and related services of some kind greater than that needed by healthy children are classified as having special healthcare needs (CSHCN).1 The cause of two of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), remains largely unknown . ASD is characterized by limited interests, repetitive activities, and challenges with social communication, while ADHD is characterized by difficulties with attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity.2 There is increasing evidence that ADHD and autism frequently cooccur.3 ASD is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders including autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder. One in 36 children are affected by ASD.4 These children show linguistic disorders and social isolation symptoms, repetitive behaviors, a lack of interest in social activities, and trouble interacting and communicating with others. Over the past 50 years, ADHD has been improved just like other psychiatric disorders. ADHD is a common, life-limiting condition that often cooccurs with other mental health conditions.5 The development of teeth is a complex multifactorial process.6 It is a cadenced sequence of cellular activity. The development of teeth occurs in four stages. The neural crest ectomesenchyme, which produces tooth structures other than 1–4Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Sri Ramachandr

FAQs

What is the purpose of this cross-sectional study?

To determine and compare the frequency and distribution of developmental dental disturbances in children with ASD, ADHD, and neurotypical children.

How many children were included, and what methodology was used?

A total of 673 children aged 3–13 in Chennai were included. Demographic data and oral examinations were recorded after informed consent, and Chi-squared tests were used for statistical analysis.

What were the key findings about prevalence and types of anomalies?

Children with ASD and ADHD showed a higher prevalence of developmental tooth disturbances (51.6%) versus controls (22.6%). Hypodontia, peg-shaped laterals, talon’s cusp, and enamel hypoplasia were more common in the case group.

Sep 29, 2026

Upload by jayni