This pilot study designed to evaluate the feasibility and potential impact of play-based interventions on pediatric dental patients. The intervention consists of a structured dental play session prior to restorative treatment, aimed at reducing anxiety and improving behavioral cooperation. Data will be collected during and after the procedure, focusing on observed behavior and responses to standardized assessments.

The purpose of this pilot study is to evaluate whether a structured dental play intervention can reduce dental anxiety and improve behavioral cooperation and treatment acceptance among pediatric patients undergoing restorative care. Dental play involves familiarizing children with common dental instruments-such as mirrors, composite guns, and acid etch containers-by allowing them to interact with these items before their procedure.

This prospective randomized controlled pilot study will include participants aged 3-6 years who present to the pediatric dental clinic for restorative treatment. Participants included will be American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Physical Status I or II and have no pre-existing behavioral or neurological conditions that could influence anxiety or cooperation.

Participants will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to one of two groups: an intervention group receiving a pre-appointment dental play session with a Child Life Specialist, and a control group receiving standard care without play intervention.

Previous research in medical settings demonstrates that play-based interventions can reduce anxiety and enhance patient understanding of healthcare procedures. However, limited evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of such interventions in dentistry. This study aims to explore the feasibility and preliminary impact of dental play interventions on pediatric patient behavior during restorative treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participants with no neurodivergent diagnosis
• Patients who at previous NP or hygiene visit has restorative needs that require administration of local anesthesia
• Patients who are within a score of 2-5 on the Houpt Scale

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a diagnosed neurodivergent syndrome
• Patients who do not need restorative work
• Patients who are either score 1 or 6 on the Houpt Scale, to focus on patients with mild to moderate behavior challenges who may benefit most from the intervention.
• Patients with complex medical history that affect behavior and cooperation