Using Prediction and Desensitization Techniques to Treat Dental Anxiety: A Case Example

One boy with developmental delay hated the dentist. He hit, screamed, and needed restraint.

The team paired two tools: prediction (a story showing each step) and desensitization (short happy visits). They tracked crying, hitting, and cooperation across three years.

After eight practice visits the child sat still for a full cleaning with no tears. The calm behavior lasted every check-up for the next three years.

Kammer et al. (2025) and Shawler et al. (2021) show most families still can’t find a dentist willing to see autistic kids. Those papers blame cost and dentist fear, not the child.

McMullen proves one office CAN succeed when the right prep is used. The gap is training, not fate.

Estes et al. (2011) and Chou et al. (2007) give us checklists to spot pain or distress during care; pair their tools with McMullen’s package and you get both comfort and data.

You can copy this two-step plan in any clinic: write a simple picture story, then schedule brief ‘fun’ visits that end before problem behavior starts. No fancy gear, no meds, just clear cues and gradual exposure. Parents leave with a dentist their child likes, and you gain a lifelong patient who shows up on time.