Virtual Dental Office Experience for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen ByAzadeh Kushki, PhD

Age: < 18

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?This trial compares a 360° VR video and a social story to help children with autism feel less anxious before dental visits. The VR video allows children to explore a virtual dentist's office, while the social story explains the visit in simple terms. Both methods aim to make the dental visit less stressful by familiarizing children with what to expect.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for children aged 4-12 with autism spectrum disorder who have a dental appointment at least 3 weeks away and are predicted to have difficulty sitting through it. It's their first time at Holland Bloorview Dental, and they must have an ASD diagnosis from the community.

Inclusion Criteria

I believe my child will struggle to sit through a dental visit.

My next dental appointment is at least 3 weeks away.

I have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

+2 more

Exclusion Criteria

I believe my child can sit through a full dental appointment without issues.

Participant Groups

The study compares two methods to reduce pre-visit anxiety for dental appointments in children with ASD: one uses virtual reality (360° video) while the other uses a social story. The cost of both methods will also be compared.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Experimental Condition (360° Video)Experimental Treatment1 Intervention

The 360° video (experimental) group will be mailed a study tablet with the 360° video prior to the dental visit.

Group II: Control Condition (Social Story)Active Control1 Intervention

The treatment-as-usual (control) group will be mailed a study tablet with a social story prior to the dental visit.