296 - Fidget Spinners as a Distraction Technique during Local Anesthesia

Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of this randomized control trial was to evaluate the effectiveness of fidget spinners as a distraction technique to reduce pain and anxiety during the administration of buccal infiltration local anesthesia as part of the restorative treatment process in children aged 4 to 9 years old.

Methods: Children aged 4 to 9 years old requiring buccal infiltration local anesthesia for restorative dental treatment were identified and recruited for the study. The study population was randomly assigned to an experimental and control group. The patients in the experimental group were given a fidget spinner, educated on its use, and instructed to play with it during the administration of local anesthesia. The patients in the control group were not given fidget spinners, and instead received simple positive reinforcement. Anxiety was measured in both groups via pulse rates captured before, during, and after local anesthesia administration. Pain was measured in both groups via the Faces, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) scale. Pulse rates and FLACC scores were then compared for significant difference between the experimental and control groups.

Results: Final data pending.

Conclusions: Final data pending.

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