Title: Managing dental anxiety in pediatric dentistry: A review of non-pharmacological interventions
Abstract:
Dental fear and anxiety (DFA) presents significant challenges in pediatric dentistry, often leading to avoidance of treatment and poor oral health outcomes in children. While pharmacological interventions such as sedation and anesthesia are traditionally used to manage DFA, they come with potential health risks and ethical concerns. This review explores non-pharmacological strategies for managing DFA in pediatric patients, focusing on three main interventions: physical restraint, audiovisual distraction (AVD), and psychological/therapeutic techniques. The paper examines the effectiveness, benefits, and limitations of each approach, drawing from recent studies and clinical findings. Physical restraints, such as the Papoose Board, are effective but controversial, raising concerns about psychological harm and ethical practice. AVD methods, including music, cartoons, and virtual reality, demonstrate strong efficacy in reducing anxiety by engaging multiple senses. Psychological interventions, including Magic Distraction Therapy (MDT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and hypnosis, offer promising outcomes, though accessibility and implementation remain barriers. Emphasizing a patient-centered approach, this review highlights the need for ethical, individualized strategies that improve pediatric dental experiences and encourage long-term oral health. Future research should continue refining these techniques to promote safer and more effective anxiety management in pediatric dentistry.
