Evaluating Turtle-Assisted Therapy to Reduce Dental Anxiety and Improve Behavior in Children Aged 6 to 10 During Routine Dental Visits

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the effect of a structured animal-assisted therapy AAT session involving a turtle on dental anxiety and behavioral compliance in children aged 6 to 10 during routine dental procedures that do not require local anesthesia. Dental anxiety is a common challenge in pediatric patients and can lead to behavioral difficulties and avoidance of dental care. The study focuses on exploring non-pharmacological methods like AAT to reduce anxiety using validated anxiety scales and physiological stress markers. Participants are randomly assigned to either an experimental group that interacts with a turtle for a set time or a control group engaging in a standard activity such as painting. Before, during, and after the dental procedure, anxiety and behavior are measured using several scales including Corahs Dental Anxiety Scale, Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale, Facial Image Scale, Venham Picture Test, and the Frankl Behavior Assessment Scale, along with physiological measurements like pulse rate. The study includes parental consent and child assent, with data collected at multiple timepoints. Throughout the study, children undergo non-invasive dental procedures such as examinations and fluoride applications. Researchers collect pre-test, short repeat, and post-procedure measurements along with satisfaction surveys and record any adverse events such as increased fear or allergic reactions. The study lasts about one year, allowing comprehensive assessment of anxiety reduction and behavioral changes in a pediatric dental setting.

Turtle-Assisted Animal Interaction on Dental Anxiety and Physiological Parameters in Children