Clinical examination
ANDERSEN, CAVITY
The child was made comfortable in a conventional dental chair in the operatory room. If a therapy dog was present, the child was empowered to select their preference for interaction. Alternatives were to be on their lap or stay on an electric adjustable veterinary table adjacent to the chair, alternatively resting on the floor (Figure Alternative positions of the dental therapy dog, according to the preference of the study participants. The dog on the veterinary table (a, b, d), alternatively the dog in the dental chair (c, e). (Photos: Anne M. Gussgard [a, b, c, d] Lars Åke Andersen [e])Next, electrodes for measuring heart rate variability and skin conductance were attached to the child. The electrophysiological equipment was calibrated before the clinician initiated the clinical examination of the child's oral cavity and teeth, using a mirror and probe and a three‐way syringe with water and air. No excavations or other operative interventions were performed, nor were any radiographs made. The parent/guardian was present during the entire clinical examination.