Direct and Indirect Effects of Autism Spectrum Disorder Severity on Dental Health in Children and Adolescents: A Structural Equation Modeling Study

This cross-sectional study of 399 autistic children examined how ASD severity affects dental health through both direct effects and indirect pathways via toothbrushing willingness and dietary quality. Results showed ASD severity had significant direct effects on dental health (0.199) and indirect effects mediated through reduced toothbrushing compliance (0.137) and poorer diet quality (0.070).