A recent study from Swedish scientists published in the European Archives of Pediatric Dentistry researched stress levels in children during invasive and non-invasive dental operations.
These measurements allow us to find the most stressful part of treatment and define the most important dental fear triggers in young patients.
So, let's review the study's results.
How can we measure fear?
To find where nervous tension is the most intensive, scientists define three key physiological metrics, including:
- heart rate collected by photoplethysmography
- galvanic skin response
- hand movement measured with a 3-axis gyroscope and accelerometer signals
To collect these parameters, scientists use a device called Shimmer3 GSR + unit, equipped with electrodes attached to the skin.
Additionally, scientists implemented into experiments three self-report scales so participants can report their feelings via:
- colored analogue scale for pain intensity
- facial analog scale for the mood
- dental fear scale
Who are the participants?
Twenty kids between the ages of 14 and 16 were involved in the experiment and divided into two groups. The first one received non-invasive procedures such as standard dental check-ups, and the second grout, in turn, received invasive treatment, including premolar extraction, maxilla, or mandible due to orthodontic indication.
Unsurprisingly, the latter type of treatment turned out to be the most stressful part of dental procedures. The most intensive response of all parameters was observed at topical anesthesia, dental anesthesia, and dental extraction.
Why it's important?
First, this research provides insights into dental anxiety management, highlighting the most stressful parts of invasive dental treatment. Thus, doctors can develop their own methodologies to help patients with dental phobia to deal with stress during these procedures.
Second, the study shows that hand-wearing sensors – are an effective way to track human stress levels during treatment, which may help further research dental anxiety.
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