The use of audiovisual distraction eyeglasses as a resource in Pediatric dental care: a case series

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to report a case series on the use of audiovisual distraction eyeglasses in children during dental care. Methods: The influence of the distraction tool on the children’s heart rate frequency and dental care experience was further investigated. The study children had their heart rate recorded during three clinical appointments and underwent the following procedures: 1) anamnesis; 2) modified atraumatic restorative treatment with the child wearing audiovisual eyeglasses; and 3) modified atraumatic restorative treatment without the use of audiovisual eyeglasses. The interval between appointments was up to one week. The heart rate was measured using a pulse oximeter, and a post-treatment questionnaire was applied after the three appointments. The sample consisted of five children aged 4 to 7 years attending the Pediatric Dental Clinics of the State University of Paraíba. Results: While wearing the audiovisual eyeglasses, the children’s individual heart rates were lower in the second dental visit as compared to the first and third ones. The post-treatment questionnaire revealed a preference for the use of audiovisual distraction eyeglasses as the children felt more comfortable, pleased, and had a reduced pain perception and anxiety. Conclusion: The heart rate decrease observed herein suggests that audiovisual eyeglasses may contribute to reducing anxiety during dental care.

Keywords

• audiovisual
• handling
• pediatric dentistry