This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of tactile distraction materials, including play dough, slime, and plush toys, on dental anxiety, pain perception, and physiological stress responses in children undergoing dental treatment. Ninety children aged 6-10 years receiving restorative dental treatment under local anesthesia were randomly assigned to one of four groups: play dough, slime, plush toy, or control group without distraction. Dental anxiety and pain levels were assessed using validated psychometric scales, while physiological stress responses were evaluated through heart rate monitoring and salivary cortisol measurements. The study seeks to determine whether simple non-pharmacological distraction techniques can improve behavioral cooperation and reduce anxiety and pain perception during pediatric dental procedures. Findings may contribute to the development of child-friendly dental management strategies and enhance the quality of pediatric dental care.
Children aged 6-10 years requiring restorative dental treatment.
Indication for dental treatment under local anesthesia.
Ability to understand and respond to dental anxiety and pain assessment scales (CFSS-DS and Wong-Baker Faces Scale).
Children classified as ASA I or ASA II.
Presence of systemic diseases or medical conditions affecting stress response or contraindicating routine dental treatment
History of psychiatric, neurological, or developmental disorders that may impair cooperation or communication
Use of medications influencing anxiety, pain perception, heart rate, or cortisol levels
Requirement for sedation or general anesthesia for dental treatment