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Effect of Play Dough, Slime, and Plush Toys on Dental Anxiety and Pain in Children During Dental Treatment
Sponsor: Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University
Summary
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of tactile distraction materials, including play dough, slime, and plush toys, on dental anxiety, pain perception, and physiological stress responses in children undergoing dental treatment. Ninety children aged 6-10 years receiving restorative dental treatment under local anesthesia were randomly assigned to one of four groups: play dough, slime, plush toy, or control group without distraction. Dental anxiety and pain levels were assessed using validated psychometric scales, while physiological stress responses were evaluated through heart rate monitoring and salivary cortisol measurements. The study seeks to determine whether simple non-pharmacological distraction techniques can improve behavioral cooperation and reduce anxiety and pain perception during pediatric dental procedures. Findings may contribute to the development of child-friendly dental management strategies and enhance the quality of pediatric dental care.
Official title: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Play Dough, Slime, and Plush Toys on Dental Anxiety, Pain Perception, and Salivary Cortisol Levels in Children During Dental Treatment
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
6 Years - 10 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
90
Start Date
2026-02-17
Completion Date
2026-06-01
Last Updated
2026-03-03
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
Play Dough Distraction
Use of play dough as a tactile distraction during pediatric dental treatment to reduce anxiety and pain perception.
Slime Distraction
Use of slime as a tactile distraction during pediatric dental treatment.
Plush Toy Distraction
Use of a plush toy as a tactile distraction during pediatric dental treatment.
No Distraction (Control)
Standard restorative dental treatment without distraction material.