Research Information System
Research in Autism, vol.131, 2026 (Scopus)
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of systematic desensitization supported by point-of-view modeling (PVM) in improving the acceptance of dental examinations by children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) without the need for any invasive or interventional procedures. Method: Twelve children with ASD (females n = 1 8.3 %; males n = 11 91.7 %) were included in the study. The pre-test was evaluated two phases: pulse rate and oral examination steps in the dental clinic. The pulse rate using a pulse oximeter and the response to oral examination steps using the Frankl Scale were measured. A special room simulating a dental clinic was prepared in the special education center. In the room, systematic desensitization supported by PVM was applied by showing a video of oral examination steps by the children's own educators. After, post-test was applied as in the pre-test. The pre-test and post-test data were statistically compared. Results: The mean age of participants was 9.5 ± 2.3 years. The mean pulse values in the pre-test (98.16 ± 16.06) were statistically higher than the post-test (80.33 ± 11.15) (p = 0.013). A statistically difference was observed between the Frankl Scale values in the pre-test and post-test stage (p < 0.05). Frankl Scale values in the post-test were higher than in the pre-test stage. Conclusion: The systematic desensitization supported by PVM has been shown effective in accustoming children with ASD to oral examinations. Lay Summary: Dentists, parents, and special educators can use desensitization supported by PVM to facilitate dental procedures of children with ASD.