Animal Assisted Therapy: A Survey of Patient's and Caregivers' Perceptions in Orthodontics

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  • Cass, Katelyn Danielle
    • Affiliation: School of Dentistry, Department of Orthodontics
Abstract
  • Dental anxiety affects up to 22% of children leading to lifelong dental and orthodontic avoidance. Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) is used to reduce anxiety and perception of pain in medical settings. To evaluate perceptions of canine AAT in dentistry, a cross-sectional survey (n=721) consisting of pre-tested and validated questions, was conducted of orthodontic patients (n=485) and caregivers (n=236), half randomized to the presence of a therapy dog. Data reveal an overwhelming majority of patients and caregivers expressed little to no concern regarding cleanliness (83%), allergies (81%) and safety (89%) with a therapy animal in a dental setting. All groups believe therapy animals make experiences in dental offices more enjoyable (75%) and reduce anxiety (82%). Interestingly, almost half would preferentially select an office offering AAT. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we assessed if perceptions of AAT changed before and after the shutdown of dental offices, with no significant changes found. Across all cohorts, responses strongly support use of AAT in dentistry and suggest it could serve as both a practice builder and anxiety-management tool, with broad public support.
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  • In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
Advisor
  • Jacox, Laura
  • Jackson, Tate
  • Saemundsson, Siggi
  • Strauman, Timothy
Degree
  • Master of Science
Degree granting institution
  • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Graduate School
Graduation year
  • 2021
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