Effectiveness of Sensory Adapted Dental Environments on Physiological and Behavioral Outcomes in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Binti Rani Chand, Prashant MishraObjectives:
To systematically evaluate the effectiveness of sensory-adapted dental environments (SADEs), compared with regular dental environments (RDEs), in reducing physiological arousal and anxiety and improving behavioral cooperation in children.
Material and Methods:
A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Google Scholar) were searched up to June 2025. Eligible studies included randomized, crossover, pilot, and observational designs involving children aged ≤18 years. Data on physiological and behavioral outcomes were synthesized using random-effects models. Risk of bias (RoB 2) and certainty of evidence grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) were appraised.
Results:
Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Compared with RDEs, SADEs significantly reduced physiological distress (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.68; 95% CI -0.90 to -0.46; p <0.001) and enhanced behavioral cooperation (SMD = +0.74; 95% CI 0.52-0.96; p <0.001). Parent-reported anxiety decreased, and treatment completion rates improved (RR = 1.24; 95% CI 1.10-1.38). Evidence was certainly moderate to high.
Conclusion:
SADEs are effective, feasible, and low-cost interventions that reduce stress and improve cooperation among neurotypical and neurodiverse children.