NCT06411808

Evaluating Sensory-Adapted Dental Care in Children With Sensory Processing Disorders

The Impact of Sensory-Adapted Dental Environment on Anxiety and Behavior in Children With Sensory Processing Disorders: A Crossover Randomized Control Trial

• Status: Active Not Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 20 (actual)
• Sponsor: The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 2 Years – 17 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This clinical trial examines the efficacy of a Sensory-Adapted Dental Environment (SADE) in reducing anxiety and improving behavioral outcomes in children with sensory processing disorders during routine dental visits. By modifying the dental setting to accommodate sensory sensitivities-such as using dim lighting, noise-canceling headphones, and non-threatening dental tools-the study aims to create a more comfortable dental experience for these children. This research could potentially inform broader pediatric dentistry practices, making dental care more accessible and less distressing for children with sensory sensitivities.

Detailed description

The study is a crossover randomized controlled trial designed to assess the impact of a Sensory-Adapted Dental Environment (SADE) on children with sensory processing disorders, focusing on both physiological and behavioral responses. Participants will undergo two dental cleaning visits; one in a standard dental environment and one in a sensory-adapted setting. Each visit will be spaced three to four months apart to monitor short-term effects and behaviors. The primary outcomes measured will include changes in anxiety levels, as assessed by physiological markers (e.g., heart rate) and behavioral scales (e.g., modified dental anxiety scale). Secondary outcomes will evaluate the overall acceptance of the sensory-adapted environment by children and their caregivers. This study seeks to demonstrate that tailored environmental modifications can significantly improve the dental care experience, potentially leading to enhanced long-term dental health and reduced care avoidance among children with sensory processing disorders. The trial will also gather qualitative feedback from participants and their parents to better understand individual experiences and refine future adaptations in pediatric dental practices.

Conditions

• Sensory Processing Disorder

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Sensory-Adapted Dental Environment	The Sensory-Adapted Dental Environment (SADE) involves altering the dental setting to reduce sensory stimuli that can cause discomfort or anxiety in children with sensory processing disorders. This includes the use of controlled lighting, ambient sounds, and non-threatening tools to create a calming atmosphere conducive to positive dental experiences.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-06-28
• Primary completion: 2025-03-31
• Completion: 2025-12-31
• First posted: 2024-05-13
• Last updated: 2025-07-09

Locations

1 site across 1 country: United States