A new approach to treating dental fear using a mobile app and telehealth.
A Stepped-Care Approach to Treating Dental Fear: A Sequential, Multiple Assignment, Randomized Trial for Cognitive-Behavioral Treatment Via Mobile App and Evidence-Based Collaborative Care
This study is testing a new mobile app and online therapy to see if it can help people with dental fear feel more comfortable at the dentist compared to usual methods.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 1250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 13 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | New York University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New York, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT06024395 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to compare a stepped care intervention for dental fear against the usual methods employed by dentists. The intervention consists of two steps: the first step involves using a mobile application designed to help manage dental fear, while the second step includes a one-hour telehealth session with a mental health provider tailored to the individual's needs. Participants will be randomly assigned to either receive the intervention or be part of a control group that provides feedback on their dental experiences. The study will offer the intervention free of charge to all participants at the conclusion of the study.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who experience moderate to severe dental fear.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience dental fear or those under 18 years old may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce dental fear and improve patients' willingness to seek dental care.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using mobile applications and telehealth for managing anxiety and fear, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Provide signed and dated informed consent/ assent form * Willing to comply with all study procedures and be available for the duration of the study * Be least 13 years old. * Score 4 or above on the Gatchel single-item dental fear rating scale * Willingness to allow access to dental attendance records * Access to a smartphone or tablet Exclusion Criteria: Given the scope and nature of the study, there is no exclusion criteria.
Where this trial is running
New York, New York
- New York University — New York, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Richard Heyman, Ph.D — New York University
- Study coordinator: Kelly Daly, PhD
- Email: kd2691@nyu.edu
- Phone: 914-806-5093
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.