229 - Randomized Clinical Trial on Medical Play for Improved Dental Cooperation

Abstract:

Purpose: Medical play, led by a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS), uses medical props to improve children's understanding and cooperation during healthcare encounters. This randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of medical play (test) compared to recreational play (control) in improving behavior and cooperation during dental visits.

Methods: In this single-blinded trial, 82 neurotypical children (ages 5-10) with prior uncooperative behavior during dental exams were randomized into medical play or recreational play groups. After consent, sessions were facilitated by a CCLS. Caregivers completed pre- and post-visit surveys assessing behavior. Children self-reported perceived well-being, and masked providers recorded behavior. Children self-reported perceived well-being, and masked providers recorded behavior using the Frankl scale. 

Results: At baseline, most parents and children reported anxiety during dental visits. A higher percentage of parents in the medical play group (98%) reported improvements in their children's behavior compared to the recreational play group (93%) (P=.62). Parents also showed greater interest in using medical play for future visits (88% test vs 73% control; P=.03). Although no statistically significant differences were found between groups, positive trends in child anxiety reduction and caregiver interest suggest that medical play could enhance children's dental experiences. 

Conclusion: This study underscores the potential benefits of child life interventions in dental settings. While no statistical significance was found, medical play shows promise as an intervention to reduce dental anxiety and improve cooperation during dental visits.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research Supported By Children's Hospital Colorado.