The Effect of Transcoutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Pain Control during Dental Procedure in Children 9-14 Years Old.

Introduction: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a non-pharmacological method widely used by medical specialists to manage acute and chronic pain in different circumstances. It can be used to manage pain during many dental procedures, as well as pain due to various conditions affecting the maxillofacial region. The aim of this study was to provide insight into the clinical research evidence for the analgetic application of TENS in pediatric patients. The hypothesis was that TENS device will achieve analgetic effect on teeth during dental procedure.

Methods: This study included 125 patients treated at the School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb clinic during two-year period. After diagnosis of caries and need for restorative treatment, patients were randomly selected in three groups. Group 1 received local anesthesia, group 2 had no anesthesia and group 3 used TENS device. Level of pain was measured with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Research was conducted by one therapist that was calibrated.

Results: We found no statistically significant difference between TENS group and group without anesthesia(p>0.05).

Conclusion: TENS device is not as efficient in achieving analgetic impact during dental procedure as local anesthesia.