An Exploration of Autistic Adults’ Dental Experiences Through a Table-Top Roleplaying Game (TTRPG)

Oral health disparities are a significant concern for Autistic adults, a population representing approximately 1 in 56 adults in Canada. This group frequently encounters dental settings ill-equipped to address their unique needs, often resulting in negative health outcomes. A substantial research gap exists, as current literature overwhelmingly focuses on children and oral conditions. Traditional research methods also present communication challenges that may exclude Autistic perspectives. To bridge this gap and promote inclusive research, we propose a novel, exploratory co-design study utilizing Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), a Tabletop Role-Playing Game (TTRPG). TTRPGs have shown promising effects for Autistic people by enhancing communication and collaboration in a safe environment. This study aims to explore Autistic adults’ insights regarding their dental experiences through D&D gameplay and evaluate the potential of TTRPGs as an inclusive data-collection method.

Five Autistic adults will participate in seven online D&D sessions and individual follow-up open interviews. Data will be analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis, applying Braun & Clarke’s framework. We aim to contribute essential Autistic adult-focused dental narratives to the existing body of knowledge. The data will provide insights into the experiences of Autistic adults in dental settings and may suggest strategies to improve access to care. We anticipate that this study will demonstrate that D&D is a safe, effective, and engaging methodology for Autistic adults to explore potentially traumatic dental experiences.