ARK's Blog

While many kids outgrow grinding their teeth, intervention may be necessary if they don't.  Tooth grinding over a prolonged period (especially with permanent teeth) may put them at risk for worn-down teeth, tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, headaches, etc.  There is no one accepted reason as to why it happens, but there are several factors that may be contributing to the problem: . . …

For some kids, gloves can be scary.  The rubbery feel, the unfamiliar smell and taste, the strange look (where did your hands go?!), and the squishy sound they make - these are all possible triggers for a sensory overload. I have some kids who absolutely won't allow me to go near them with gloves.  So I just have to wash my hands thoroughly before and after therapy.  And that's …

Question:  How can I keep my son from stuffing his mouth with food, not properly chewing, then getting choked when he swallows?  He is 5 years old and Autistic.  Do you have any idea why he does this?  I assume it has something to do with his oral sensory needs, but I am not sure.  .  Yes, you're right!  Stuffing food in the mouth most likely has to …

Oral defensiveness falls into two main categories: HYPOsensitivity and HYPERsensitivity.  Individuals with hyposensitivities have low oral tone and very little awareness of what's going on inside their mouths.  This "oral numbness" so to speak can cause anxiety and fear when it comes to toothbrushing.  On the other hand, individuals with hypersensitivities are overly conscious of …