Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Visual Stimulation and Auditory Stimulation on Dental Anxiety in Children with Special Health Care Needs

In the clinical setting of the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry at I.T.S. Dental College, Greater Noida, in children with Mild Intellectual Developmental Disorders (Mild IDD) in the age group of 6 to 12 years. To ensure a conducive and child-friendly environment, we will modify a designated room, incorporating a carefully selected colour theme and child-appropriate depictions. The room will be illuminated with dim lighting, while Lavender Essential Oil will be diffused using an electric vaporizer to provide olfactory stimulation. Additionally, we will employ wraps to offer a comforting hugging effect. The initial appointment will focus on visual stimulation, integrating a bubble tube, as reported by the parents. In the subsequent session, we will introduce auditory stimulation through instrumental music.

The preventive dental treatment will be administered in two sequential appointments. The first session will involve the application of Pit and Fissure sealant on the right side, followed by a similar procedure on the left side during the second appointment. The time interval between these two appointments will be at least 15 days.

The objective of this study is to assess outcomes such as behavioural distress, sensory discomfort, and physiological distress in these young patients, thereby enhancing our understanding of providing optimal dental care for children with Mild IDD.