Plain-English translation of NCT07166978 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This study is testing whether a preparation method called a social story can help autistic children feel less anxious about visiting the dentist. A social story is a short, step-by-step story that prepares children for what will happen during a dental visit, helping them know what to expect and how to behave. The study will compare children who receive this story-based preparation with reinforcement sessions to children who receive standard dental care without the story preparation.
Many autistic children feel very scared during dental visits, which makes it hard for them to get the dental care they need. While small studies have shown that social stories might help reduce this fear, scientists need a larger, well-designed study to prove whether this approach really works and whether it's worth the time and cost.
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If your child is in the story group, they will receive a special social story booklet and a research assistant will visit their school 8 times over 1–2 months to reinforce the story and prepare them for their dental visit. All children—whether they receive the story or not—will have brief dental check-ups at their school at 4 time points over 18 months. The dental exam involves your child lying down comfortably while a dentist looks at their teeth using a small mirror and light, with no needles or drilling. The whole study lasts about a year and a half, and participation is free.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 17, 2026 · Not medical advice
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