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

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.