Specialists' Perspectives on Social Stories in Managing Individuals With Autism in the Dental Care Setting.

Queensland dental specialists who treat children and people with special needs were surveyed about using social stories to help autistic patients during dental visits. Most (72%) found social stories helpful, especially for autistic people who need less support. While more dentists currently use paper versions, most would prefer using apps. The stories seem most helpful for autistic people with lower support needs.

This Queensland-based survey study examined dental specialists' perspectives on using social stories for autism management during dental care. With a 62% response rate, 72% of participating pediatric and special care dentistry specialists found social stories useful for treating autistic patients. While 44% currently used paper-based social stories compared to 33% using app-based versions, 61% indicated preference for app-based formats when given the choice. Perceived effectiveness varied significantly by autism support level, with 94% finding social stories beneficial for ASD level 1 versus only 44% for ASD level 3.

No significant differences were found between specialty types in their perceptions of social story usefulness.

Social stories show promise as dental management tools for autistic patients, particularly those with lower support needs. Digital formats may enhance implementation. Further research needed to establish effectiveness across different autism presentations and geographical contexts.

Single state survey with unspecified sample size. No comparison group or outcome measures reported. Study design not clearly described. Limited generalizability beyond Queensland dental specialists.

To investigate and compare the experiences of specialists in pediatric and special care dentistry (SCD) using social stories as a management tool in the dental treatment of individuals on the autism spectrum METHODS: A 34-item online questionnaire was designed and distributed to specialists in Queensland. Univariate data were analyzed and graphed. A response rate of 62% was achieved. Results showed that 72% of participants agreed with the statement that "social stories are useful when treating patients with autism." More respondents reported using paper-based social stories (44%) than app-based (33%); however, 61% of participants responded they were more likely to use an app-based social story when given the choice.

There was no statistically significant association between perception of social story usefulness and type of specialty (p = 0.627). As autism level of support increased, there was a decrease in perceived benefits of social stories (94% for ASD level 1 vs. 44% for ASD level 3). This study showed that both Queensland specialists in pediatric dentistry and SCD find social stories to be a useful tool in the management of patients with autism. Further research would enable greater insights into the perception of social stories among dental specialists across Australia.