Effectiveness and Comparison of Different Behaviour Guidance Techniques in Pediatric Dental Patients- A Randomized Control Study

Abstract

Background: Dental anxiety is the normal psychological response to a dental stimulus that has been interpreted as harmful or dangerous to the individual. It can be experienced as a level of uneasiness around dental appointments or specific dental procedures. To overcome this, Pediatric dentists use various methods to reduce anxiety and improve children's cooperation. Aims: The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of different behaviour management techniques in anxious pediatric patients aged 5-10 years, based on HR, BP, and Anxiety scales. Material and Method: Sixty children aged 5-10 years were divided into three groups: Group 1 Tell-Show-Do (n=20), Group 2 Virtual Reality (n=20), and Group 3 Control (n=20). In each group, Restoration (n=10) and oral prophylaxis (n=10) were performed by the same operator for every child. The Control group was treated without using behaviour techniques, while the Virtual Reality group done with Virtual reality Device with and an Android phone playing a 3D video with audio (VR Chota Bheem). BP was recorded before and after the procedure, and heart rate (HR) was recorded before, during, and after the procedure using a pulse oximeter. Anxiety levels were measured using Venham's Picture Test (VPT) and Venham's Clinical Rating Scale (VCRS). One-way ANOVA was used for Intergroup comparison and the post-hoc Tukey test was used for Multiple Intergroup comparisons with a Significance level set at 5%. Result: The statistical analysis revealed a significant reduction in anxiety for both HR and BP in the VR group compared to the TSD group (p < 0.05), with a greater magnitude of reduction in the VR group. Similarly, subjective measures (VPT and VCRS) showed more improvement in the VR group (p < 0.05). These results highlight the superior effectiveness of Virtual Reality in reducing anxiety compared to the TSD technique. and control group. Conclusion: The Virtual Reality (VR) method is more effective than the Tell-Show-Do (TSD) technique in reducing anxiety among children undergoing dental procedures such as restorations and oral prophylaxis. The immersive nature of VR provides a significant distraction from the clinical environment, leading to greater relaxation and comfort during treatment. This finding suggests that VR can be a valuable tool in pediatric dentistry for enhancing patient cooperation and improving the overall dental experience for anxious children.