Welcome to the February 2, 2005 issue.

In This Issue:
1. New Featured article.
2. Full text journal articles.

by Daniel Ravel DDS, FAAPD

Dental Management of the Autistic Child
Autism was first described in 1943 by the American child psychologist, Leo Kanner. Autism is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder, and usually appears within the first three years of a child??™s life. The hallmark of autism is the lack of communication skills. Affected children also have problems with language, behavior, and social skills.

Autism is a lifelong condition, and its cause is unknown. Environmental and genetic factors do contribute to the development of autism, but most children with autism have normal physical health.

Autism is a neurological disorder that appears during the first three years of life. It is a pervasive developmental disorder defined behaviorally as a syndrome consisting of abnormal development of social skills, limitations in the use of interactive language, and sensorimotor defects. Autism specifically affects brain function in the areas responsible for the development of communication and social interaction skills.

Children with autism may appear normal, but the disorder may prevent them from functioning and communicating in socially appropriate ways. The incidence of autistic disorder is seven per 10,000 persons. It is more common in males than females (4:1 ratio). The rates of caries and periodontal disease in autistic children is comparable to those in the general population.
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Full text journal articles
Edited by Daniel Ravel DDS, FAAPD

Evaluation of the formocresol versus ferric sulfate primary molar pulpotomy: AAPD
Setting up a mobile dental practice within your present office sturcture: CDA
Fluoride varnish use in primary care - what do providers think: AAP
Assessment and treatment of autism: IJP
Procedural sedation in the acute care setting: AFP
Intranasal versus intramuscular naloxone for suspected opioid overdose: MJA
Child abuse and trichotillomania: BMJ
The children of Palestine - a generation of hope and despair: WRMEA.COM

The Pediatric Dental Health Newsletter is published by Daniel Ravel DDS FAAPD, editor & contributing author.

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