Study of Sensory Adapted Dental Environments and Video Modeling to Reduce Anxiety and Discomfort During Dental Cleanings in Children Ages 6 to 12

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating different dental care environments to reduce anxiety, distress, pain, and sensory discomfort during dental cleanings in children aged 6 to 12 years with and without dental fear and anxiety. This randomized clinical trial compares a Sensory Adapted Dental Environment SADE, video-based modeling VBM, a combination of both VBM-SADE, and a regular dental environment RDE to see which approach helps children cope better during dental visits. The study includes four groups one receiving traditional dental cleaning in a regular environment using standard behavior techniques one watching a 5-minute video modeling a calm dental cleaning before treatment one treated in a sensory-adapted room with dimmed lights, calming music, and a weighted blanket and one combining the video modeling with the sensory-adapted environment. Each group experiences specific modifications designed to reduce sensory discomfort and anxiety during the dental procedure. Participants will undergo dental cleaning sessions with monitoring of stress responses such as skin conductance and observations of distress behaviors during the procedure. After each cleaning, questionnaires will assess anxiety, pain, cooperation, sensory sensitivity, satisfaction, and experiences of the child, caregiver, and dentist. Additional assessments before the first cleaning include dental fear and sensory profiles. The study will continue through the dental cleaning visits and include interviews with dentists for up to a year, ensuring comprehensive evaluation of the interventions impact.

Sensory Adapted Dental Environments to Enhance Oral Care for Children With and Without Dental Fear and Anxiety