Comparison of pain perception during the administration of local anaesthesia with computerized delivery system (WAND) and conventional technique in pediatric dental procedure using Visual Analogue scale-A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of the study was to compare the pain perception during the administration of local anaesthesia with the computerized delivery system (Wand) and conventional injection technique in paediatric dental procedures using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). MethodsOne hundred and six children from the OPD of Department of Pedodontics, Yerla Medical Trust Dental College, Navi Mumbai were included in the study. They were divided in to three groups: Group A-six years (5 years 6 months- 6 years 6 months), Group B- nine years (8 years 6 months–9 years 6 month), and Group C- twelve years (11 years 6 months–12 years 6 months). In each group, children received two interventions: the conventional local anaesthesia administration and WAND. Based on randomization by flip of the coin, the technique to be administered first was chosen. Palatal infiltration was always given first followed by the buccal infiltration irrespective of whether the WAND or the conventional technique was used. ResultThere was no significant difference between the mean pain perception (VAS scores) for the Wand and conventional injection technique in the 6 and 9 year old age groups. However there was significant difference between the two, among children in the 12 year age group. Conclusionthere was no difference in the pain perception measured as VAS score with reference to the two techniques compared: the Wand and conventional, in all and in 6 and 9 year old children. However, the Wand technique was found to be superior in terms of lower pain for the 12 year olds. Also, among girls, the Wand technique was found to be superior.