Behavioural and physiological effect of dental environment sensory adaptation on children’s dental anxiety

Abstract

Dental anxiety is a serious obstacle in conventional oral healthcare delivery. A sensory adapted dental environment (SDE) might be effective in reducing anxiety and inducing relaxation. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a Snoezelen SDE in reducing anxiety among children undergoing scaling and polishing by a dental hygienist. The Snoezelen environment consists of a partially dimmed room with lighting effects, vibroacoustic stimuli, and deep pressure. Nineteen children, aged 6-11 yr, participated in a cross-over intervention trial. Behavioral parameters included the mean number, duration, and magnitude of anxious behaviors, as monitored by videotaped recordings. Physiological parameters reflecting arousal were monitored by changes in dermal resistance. Results, by all measures, consistently indicated that both behavioral and psychophysiological measures of relaxation improved significantly in the SDE compared with a conventional dental environment. The findings support recommending the SDE as an effective and practical alternative in oral healthcare delivery to anxious children.

Management of fear and anxiety in the dental clinic: a review

“…125 In a more extensive environmental change involving a partially dimmed room with lighting effects, vibroacoustic stimuli and consistent body pressure (a so-called Snoezelen environment), greater relaxation resulted than in a standard operatory for children undergoing a scale and polish by a dental hygienist. 118 It should be noted, however, that the literature in this area is sparse and considerably more research is required before specific recommendations can be made in relation to altering the clinic environment in order to reduce dental anxiety.…”

“…118 It has been suggested that reducing these stress-triggers is an effective procedure for managing anxious patients. 119,120 Indeed, studies have found that changing aspects of the clinic environment, including appearance and odour, can have an effect on perceived anxiety.…”

Feasibility of a Sensory-Adapted Dental Environment for Children With Autism

“…Tactile Deep pressure was provided by a butterfly-type wrap (adapted from Shapiro, Melmed, Sgan-Cohen, Eli, & Parush, 2007), weighted with a regular pediatric dental X-ray vest. The wings wrapped around the child from shoulders to toes and provided a deep hugging pressure to produce a calming effect.…”

Aplikasi teori belajar sosial dalam penatalaksanaan rasa takut dan cemasan anak pada perawatan gigi (Application of social learning theory in the management of children dental fear and anxiety)

“…24,25 Berbagai penelitian telah mengembangkan dalam tatalaksana DFA. Intervensi musik, 26,27 modifikasi lingkungan kerja, 28,29 biofeedback, 30,31 adalah contoh beberapa penelitian yang ditujukan dalam mengurangi DFA saat perawatan gigi. Peneliti bidang psikologi sendiri telah banyak melakukan penelitian mengenai DFA sejak tahun 1980-an.…”