Neurotransmitter modulator (TENS) for control of dental operative pain

A pain control study of 600 dental procedures was undertaken during a 1-year period. The procedures varied from vigorous subgingival scaling to endodontic procedures. Most procedures involved the placement of two- and three-surface anterior and posterior restorations. Results were evaluated for pain control related to procedure type, patients' level of relaxation, sensitivity to pain, and patients' skepticism about the success of the reduction in pain during the procedure. Electrical analgesia with neurotransmitter modulator (TENS) was a valuable adjunctive tool for scaling, prophylaxis, and restorative procedures.