Oral hypersensitivity and food selectivity

Oral hypersensitivity and food selectivity are linked manifestations in which the mouth and face area is experienced as overly sensitive. Typical signs: refusal of tooth brushing and facial touch, pronounced food selectivity (accepting only a narrow range of foods or consistencies), gag reflex when attempting to expand the diet, fear of dental procedures. These manifestations are most often seen in children with ASD, sensory disintegration, and post-encephalopathy states — they reflect a feature of tactile processing in the mouth area where typical touch is experienced as unpleasant or painful.

At H&B Neurolife International Rehabilitation Center (Shangrao), the oral hypersensitivity program proceeds gradually — without pressure or forced expansion of the diet. The principle of oral-motor therapy: "first perception, then gradual reduction of sensitivity". In parallel, sensory integration works as the overall sensory base, ABA systematically expands the diet in small steps with positive reinforcement, and occupational therapy supports overall sensory regulation. With comorbid auditory hypersensitivity — auditory integration. From TCM — gentle Tui Na massage techniques in the face area.

What parents should know

Forced expansion of the diet with oral hypersensitivity usually produces the opposite result — it intensifies resistance and reinforces the problem. The program requires patience but produces lasting results. Parents are taught how to work with the child in everyday situations (tooth brushing, feeding) so that progress at the center carries over to family life.