Comparing Two Types of Distraction (Passive and Active) During Primary Mandibular Molar Pulpotomy(Randomized Controlled Trial)

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the types of passive distraction - by watching cartoons - and active distraction - by video games - during pulpotomy on the primary mandibular molars in children.

Materials and Methods: The research sample consisted of 70 children who were randomly divided into two groups according to the distraction method used:

Group (1): 35 children who used the active distraction technique by video games through a wireless gaming handpiece.

Group (2): 35 children who used the passive distraction technique by watching cartoons films.

 

 Children were selected from the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the Faculty of Dentistry - Damascus University, who needed pulpotomy in primary mandibular molar. All children were assessed using: the modified Wong-Baker Faces Scale as a self-report, and the 'HOUPT' for crying scale as a non-self-

report, and assessment was conducted first after the anesthesia injection and the second time after completion of the treatment.

 Results: The (One Way-Anova) test was conducted to evaluate differences between two groups, Active distraction was superior in reducing fear and anxiety by HOUPT scale for crying after local anesthesia P = (0.001) and no statistically significant differences in the end of treatment. for the Wong-Baker faces scale active distraction was superior in reducing fear and anxiety after the local anesthesia and at the end of the treatment, P = (0.000). Thus, active distraction was superior in reducing fear and anxiety during the pulpotomy procedure in children .

Conclusion: Passive and active distraction techniques are successful and effective during dental procedures in children, with the superiority of active distraction by video games in reducing fear and anxiety in children.