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Published on: May 4, 2021
Nitrous oxide and hypnotherapy in paediatric dentistry.
M Tieri1, A Cosi1, L Lombardi2
1Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara, Chieti (CH), Italy.
Hypnotherapy offers a viable alternative to nitrous oxide for managing anxiety and pain in pediatric dental patients. This study demonstrates its effectiveness, potentially improving children's dental treatment experiences.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Behavioral Science
- Pain Management
Background:
- Patient compliance is crucial for effective pediatric dental treatment.
- Childhood dental anxiety and fear often impede therapeutic procedures.
- Exploring alternative anxiety and pain management techniques beyond traditional sedation is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate hypnotherapy as an alternative to nitrous oxide for managing pain and anxiety in children during dental procedures.
- To compare the efficacy of hypnotherapy, nitrous oxide, and a classic behavioral approach in pediatric dentistry.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 150 children (90 males, 60 females) compared three groups: hypnotherapy, nitrous oxide, and a classic behavioral approach.
- Pain was assessed using subjective (VAS scale) and objective measures (FLACC scale, heart rate).
- Data were analyzed using SPSS Software (version 27) to determine significant differences between groups.
Main Results:
- Hypnotherapy demonstrated comparable effectiveness to nitrous oxide in managing children's pain and anxiety during dental treatments.
- Objective and subjective pain assessments indicated positive outcomes for the hypnotherapy group.
- The study provides quantitative data supporting hypnotherapy's role in pediatric dental care.
Conclusions:
- Hypnotherapy presents a safe and effective alternative to nitrous oxide in pediatric dentistry.
- This approach can significantly improve patient compliance and reduce distress during dental procedures.
- Further research into hypnotherapy's long-term benefits in pediatric dental settings is warranted.
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