Tactile Pre-Visit Imagery for Reducing Dental Anxiety in Young Children
Official title: Tactile Pre-Visit Imagery Effect on Behavior of Children During Dental Procedures
Run by University of Southern California · NCT07719205 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether a tactile pre-visit imagery booklet can reduce anxiety and improve behavior in 4- to 10-year-olds needing their first dental restoration.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 4 Years to 10 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Southern California Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Los Angeles, California and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 26, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 2028 |
| Registry record updated | July 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07719205 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Children aged 4-10 who are treatment-naïve and require at least one composite filling or stainless steel crown with nitrous oxide and local anesthesia, and who can communicate in English or Spanish.
✕Probably not a fit
Children with developmental, cognitive, visual, or tactile impairments that prevent participation in pre-visit imagery, or those requiring emergency dental care, may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The study explores whether tactile pre-visit imagery can lessen fear of the unknown before a child’s first restorative procedure. Eligible participants are English- or Spanish-speaking, 4- to 10-year-old children with no prior dental treatment and with ASA I or II status. The intervention uses a tactile booklet to familiarize children with dental steps while they receive nitrous oxide and local anesthesia for a composite filling or stainless steel crown. Outcomes include changes in dental anxiety and observed behavior during treatment. The study is conducted at USC Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry and Altamed Dental Clinic under the lead sponsorship of the University of Southern California.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could lessen pediatric dental anxiety and improve cooperation during procedures.
How similar studies have gone: Prior studies in pediatric settings suggest preparatory imagery and familiarization can reduce anxiety, but this specific tactile pre-visit booklet approach is relatively novel in dental care.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged 4-10 years * ASA I or II * Patients who have NOT had dental treatment before * Patients needing at least ONE composite filling or stainless steel crown \[CP1\] with nitrous oxide and local anesthesia (composite filling must be done at the first treatment visit) * Parents and children must speak English or Spanish Exclusion Criteria: * Children with developmental delays or cognitive impairments that may impact their ability to participate in pre-visit imagery activities * Patients with visual or tactile disabilities associated for a particular medical condition or as reported on their medical history form * Patients who refuse to wear nitrous hood * Emergency dental appointments
Where it's running
-
USC Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry - Pediatric Dental Clinic
Los Angeles, California, United States Recruiting -
Altamed Dental Clinic
Santa Ana, California, United States Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.