Gamified App Boosts Oral Hygiene in Kids with Autism

What is it about?

The study evaluated the effectiveness of the "Marzhan Tis" mobile application in improving oral hygiene practices among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) Level 1. A prospective, non-randomized cohort study was conducted with 90 children aged 3-18 years from rehabilitation centers in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Participants were divided into an intervention group that used the app for one month and a control group that received standard oral hygiene instructions. Oral hygiene was assessed using the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S), approximal plaque index (API), and papillary-marginal-alveolar index (PMA), with adherence measured using the modified Oral Hygiene Assessment Scale (OHAS-10). Results showed significant improvements in all oral hygiene indices for the intervention group, including a 28-52% reduction in OHI-S and greater than 50% improvement in API and PMA. Independence in brushing improved in 85% of the intervention group, and a strong correlation was found between app usability and learning outcomes. The study concluded that the "Marzhan Tis" app effectively enhanced oral hygiene skills and independence in children with ASD Level 1.

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Photo by Willo Team on Unsplash

Photo by Willo Team on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This study is important as it addresses the significant oral health disparities faced by children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), offering an innovative solution through a mobile application specifically designed for this population. The "Marzhan Tis" app supports caregivers and children in overcoming challenges related to sensory sensitivities and behavioral resistance, commonly encountered in maintaining oral hygiene. This approach not only enhances oral health outcomes but also promotes greater independence in daily hygiene practices. The findings have crucial implications for integrating digital tools into pediatric oral health strategies, particularly for underserved and special needs populations, and highlight the potential of technology in bridging gaps in health care provision for children with ASD. Key Takeaways: 1. Improved Oral Hygiene: The study demonstrates that the use of the "Marzhan Tis" mobile application led to significant improvements in oral hygiene indices, with reductions in the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index and improvements in the approximal plaque index and papillary-marginal-alveolar index among children with ASD Level 1. 2. Increased Independence: The application facilitated a notable increase in the independence of children with ASD in performing oral hygiene tasks, with 85% of the intervention group showing improved independence in brushing after one month of app use. 3. Strong Usability-Learning Correlation: The usability of the "Marzhan Tis" app strongly correlated with learning success, highlighting the effectiveness of gamified and customizable features in supporting skill acquisition and promoting adherence to oral hygiene routines.