Comparative Evaluation of Videos with and without Binaural Beat Audio on Anxiety in Pediatric Patients during Dental Procedures: A Preliminary Study.

Abstract

Background: Various behavioral and emotional reactions to dental care are seen in pediatric patients. As a result, pediatric dentists are deeply concerned with effective behavior coaching. The use of audiovisual stimuli at a certain frequency, which causes the brain impulses to adjust to the new frequency, is one such technique. For relaxation, verbal and working memory, multiple cognitive activities, and pain relief, audio beats have proven to be successful. The goal of this pilot study is to compare the impact of auditory beats on children who are worried during dental operations in terms of anxiety reduction.

Materials and methods: A total of 10 children aged between 6 and 9 years were shown cartoon videos with and without binaural beat audio of α wavelength alternately at two consecutive visits. The patients were preconditioned for 30 minutes before the treatment procedures using noise-cancellation headphones with an iPad as the audiovisual aid. The use of the audiovisual aid was then continued throughout the procedure. The pulse rate (PR) and oxygen saturation (SpO₂) were noted preoperatively and after the procedure was completed.

Results: Using paired and unpaired t-tests, the resulting mean values before and after the procedure were compared. Compared to the control group's mean PR reduction of 3.6, the binaural beat audiovisual group saw a substantial PR reduction of 8.5 (mean). As for the SpO₂ level, the experimental group's mean value increased significantly (6.8) compared to the control group's value (2.9).

Conclusion: Audiovisual aids with binaural beat audio are a noninvasive therapeutic method that targets the brain centers to influence the psychological and physiological processes of the body. It is an effective anxiolytic modality that should be considered in pediatric dentistry.

Clinical significance: The present article centers on the assessment of anxiety levels among pediatric patients. The study aims to provide insights into the mechanisms of anxiety in this specific population, with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of care and treatment options available.

How to cite this article: Rathi N, Srivastava R, Thosar N, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Videos with and without Binaural Beat Audio on Anxiety in Pediatric Patients during Dental Procedures: A Preliminary Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(9):971-975.