Comparing digital and traditional dental impressions for preschoolers' comfort and anxiety

Effectiveness of Digital Versus Conventional Impression on Discomfort and Dental Anxiety in Preschool Children (A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial)

Not applicable Interventional Alexandria University · NCT06623851

This study is testing whether preschoolers feel more comfortable and less anxious during dental visits when using a digital scanner compared to traditional impression methods.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment66 (estimated)
Ages4 Years to 6 Years
SexAll
SponsorAlexandria University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Alexandria)
Trial IDNCT06623851 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the discomfort and dental anxiety levels in preschoolers aged 4-6 when taking dental impressions using two different methods: digital impressions with an intraoral scanner and conventional alginate impressions. A total of 666 pediatric patients will be randomly assigned to either group, and their experiences will be assessed based on discomfort, gag reflex, behavior, and the time taken for the procedure. The goal is to determine which method is less distressing for young children during dental visits.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are preschool children aged 4-6 who exhibit moderate dental anxiety and have no prior dental experiences.

Not a fit: Patients with physical or mental disabilities, psychological issues, or existing dental discomfort will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved dental experiences for preschoolers, reducing anxiety and discomfort during dental procedures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that digital impressions can reduce discomfort and anxiety in dental settings, suggesting a positive outlook for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children with scores of 3 or 4 during preoperative assessments according to the Frankl Behavioral Rating Scale.
* No previous dental experience.
* Patient's parents signed an informed consent before participating in the trial.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any physical or mental disability, or psychological problems.
* Children with temporomandibular joint or periodontal discomfort

Where this trial is running

Alexandria

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Dental AnxietyDental impressionDigital impression
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.