Efficiency of a Sensory-Adapted Dental Environment Versus Regular Dental Environment in Neurotypically Healthy Children: A Parallel-Arm Interventional Study

Abstract

Introduction

The basic principle of a sensory adaptive dental environment is that an individual's sensory experiences have a significant impact on their emotional and psychological well-being. Taste, smell, touch, hearing, and sight are the five basic senses that affect our perception and responses to the environment. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a Sensory-Adaptive Dental Environment (SADE) compared with a Regular Dental Environment (RDE) in reducing anxiety, improving behavior, and providing a smooth experience for children undergoing dental treatment.

Materials and methods 

This parallel-arm pilot study was conducted at the outpatient Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai, from January 2024 to March 2024. A total of 148 children who met the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups: Group I (intervention group) received SADE or MSE (Multi-Sensory Environment) intervention, while Group 2 (control group) underwent dental treatments in a Regular Dental Environment (RDE). Patient behavior was assessed using Frankl's behavior rating scale, and anxiety levels were measured using Ayesha's Oddbodd anxiety scale. Additionally, heart rate and oxygen saturation (SpO ₂) were evaluated using a pulse oximeter. Statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with significance set at a p-value less than 0.05.

Results

Before the procedure, there were no notable differences in behavior or anxiety levels. However, after the procedure, children undergoing treatment under SADE resulted in markedly improved behavior and notably lower anxiety levels. Also, this correlated with reduced anxiety levels, indicated by lower heart rates and higher oxygen saturation levels.

Conclusion

The study concluded that there were notable differences in patient experiences between SADE and RDE. After their dental procedures, participants in the SADE group were found to behave better and feel less nervous. Still, in the conventional setting, only improved behavior was noted, with no significant difference in anxiety levels. Overall, our study suggests that dental offices can significantly enhance patient experiences by providing a sensory-friendly setting that helps children feel more at ease, improves patient outcomes, and less nervous during their visits.