Feasibility of a sensory-adapted dental environment for children with autism.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To provide an example of an occupational therapy feasibility study and evaluate the implementation of a randomized controlled pilot and feasibility trial examining the impact of a sensory-adapted dental environment (SADE) to enhance oral care for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Method

Twenty-two children with ASD and 22 typically developing children, ages 6-12 yr, attended a dental clinic in an urban hospital. Participants completed two dental cleanings, 3-4 mo apart, one in a regular environment and one in a SADE. Feasibility outcome measures were recruitment, retention, accrual, dropout, and protocol adherence. Intervention outcome measures were physiological stress, behavioral distress, pain, and cost.

Results

We successfully recruited and r

SUBMITTER: Cermak SA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4453036 | biostudies-literature | 2015 May-Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature