Effect of Thermomechanical Stimulation on Pain During IANB Injections.

Objective: There are very few studies on the use of a thermomechanical device for reducing injection pain in pediatric dentistry, especially for inferior alveolar nerve blocks (IANBs). The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of a thermomechanical device (Buzzy, Pain Care Labs) for reducing pain associated with an IANB for pediatric dental patients.

Methods: A total of 30 children, 5 to 8 years of age undergoing bilateral mandibular dental treatment requiring IANBs, were included in this randomized crossover study. The test group received an IANB with the use of the thermomechanical device and the control group received the IANB without the device. The groups were randomized, and the IANB was readministered after a 1-week washout interval. Subjective evaluation of pain was done utilizing the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale, and objective evaluation of pain was assessed using the Faces, Leg, Activity, Consolability, Cry (FLACC) scale.

Results: Significant reductions in pain for the objective and subjective measures were noted in the thermomechanical device group (P ≤ .00016). No differences in pain ratings were noted in groups based on treatment sequence.

Conclusions: Less pain was observed when the thermomechanical device (Buzzy) was used during IANB injections vs without the device.