Audio distraction technique in management of anxious pediatric dental patients

Abstract

BackgroundDental anxiety results in undesirable effects like turning away of dental treatment and increase stress among doctors that consequently have an effect on the treatment quality. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of listening to music using headphones as an audio distraction technique on behavior and anxiety management in children receiving dental treatment.Materials and MethodThe present interventional prospective study comprised of 60 subjects within the age group of 6-12 who were advised for dental procedures. The patients were selected from the outpatient department and grouped randomly into group A and group B with 30 subjects in each group. The group A comprised of 30 pediatric patients who were given audio distraction aids. In the group B, the treatment procedure were carried out without any distraction aids. The anxiety level was measured before and after the treatment for both the study and control group using Wong Baker's anxiety rating scale and statistical analysis were made.ResultIntergroup comparison showed highly significant difference in anxiety levels after the treatment. Intragroup comparison showed significant decrease of anxiety level from preoperative and post operative in both groups, but it was more significant in study group. The statistical analysis showed significant decrease in anxiety level after the treatment in study group than in control group.ConclusionAudio distraction technique proved to distract and reduce anxiety during dental procedures in pediatric patients.