Comparison of Three Different Distraction Techniques to Allay Dental Anxiety During La Procedures: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Background: Among the numerous approaches employed in the management of anxiety in pediatric dentistry, one of the most well-known and practical behavior control techniques for children is distraction. The current research set out to assess and compare the impact of three distraction devices—Pop-it toy, Kaleidoscope, and Fidget spinner—on the anxiety of children receiving local anesthesia (LA) administration. Methods: A comparative investigation was done between 36 children in the age group of 6–10 years who needed LA for various dental procedures and fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Participants were randomly assigned into four groups (n=9 each): Group 1 – Pop-it toy, Group 2 – Kaleidoscope, Group 3 – Fidget spinner, and Group 4 – Control (no distraction). The levels of anxiety were evaluated on a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at two points of time—pre- and post-LA administration. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21, utilizing paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA to evaluate pre- and post-LA anxiety scores between the groups. Results: Post-LA mean anxiety levels were lower for Groups 1, 2, and 3 than in the control group, although the difference was only statistically significant for the Pop-it toy group (p = 0.012). There was no significant difference between the groups in pre-LA anxiety levels (p > 0.05). Interpretation: Application of fidget spinner, kaleidoscope, and Pop-it toy as a distraction tool may be useful in the reduction of anxiety when using local anesthesia on children. Such straightforward and interactive distraction methods can be advocated as strong adjuncts in pediatric dentistry.