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NHS Update: Oral healthcare for autistic children

November’s ‘NHS Dentistry and Oral Health Update’ announced the publication of a new clinical standard to improve the oral health of autistic children and young people. Jason Wong, interim chief dental officer, also urged readers to engage with awareness days to improve public health.

Jason opened the bulletin by reminding readers of the importance of several annual national awareness campaigns - World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW, 18-24 November), the European Antibiotic Awareness Day and Mouth Cancer Action Month.

Of particular interest was his reflection on mouth cancer awareness. Jason explained the “potentially lifesaving” impact of the 45-second self-check for mouth cancer and urged dental professionals to highlight its benefits to patients and colleagues.

He also announced the publication of ‘Clinical standard: Oral healthcare for autistic children & young people and/or those with a learning disability in special educational settings’. The standard “supports the vision of universal access whereby everyone receives quality health services that meet their specific needs, enabling people to live a life without active disease, discomfort or embarrassment.” It is specifically designed to improve outcomes for “autistic children and young people (CYP), and those CYP with a learning disability”.

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