Use of a handheld communication tool for children and youths during dental procedures: a two-site controlled intervention study

BACKGROUND: Effective communication between dental professionals and patients is essential for quality care. We aimed to evaluate whether Grasp, a novel handheld squeezable device providing real-time visual and auditory feedback to signal discomfort, improved communication between patients and their dentists during dental procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients aged 6-25 years were recruited from two dental clinics in Norway. Participants were divided into two groups: One received standard care, the other used Grasp in addition to standard care. All patients - and additionally caregivers of those under 16 - completed pre- and post-treatment questionnaires, rating communication on a 1-10 scale. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the intervention's effect, adjusting for baseline scores. RESULTS: A total of 121 patients (58% females; median age 16 years) participated, with 60 using Grasp. Patients using Grasp reported greater confidence that the dentist understood their feelings, recognized when they wanted to stop, and found it easier to speak up during treatment (β = 2.10-2.54, p < 0.05). The effect of Grasp was more pronounced for participants reporting lower baseline confidence in communication with their dentist. CONCLUSIONS: Grasp appeared to improve communication regarding discomfort during dental procedures, particularly for those who initially reported lower levels of communication confidence.