Effectiveness of TENS and Acetaminophen for Pain Control During Orthodontic Treatment: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Background: Orthodontic treatment often induces pain, especially post appliance placement. This study compares transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and acetaminophen for orthodontic pain management. Materials and Methods: A randomized trial included 120 fixed orthodontic patients divided into three groups (n = 40): Group A received TENS, group B received acetaminophen, and group C was the control. Data were expressed as mean ± SD. Repeated ANOVA analysis compared mean values, followed by post-hoc Tukey analysis. Pain levels were assessed using a visual analog scale before any intervention and at 30 minutes, 6 hours, and 24 hours post activation. Results: TENS and acetaminophen significantly reduced pain compared to the control. Group A (TENS) showed significant pain reduction post activation. Group B (acetaminophen) exhibited comparable pain relief, with no significant difference between groups. Conclusion: Both TENS and acetaminophen effectively manage orthodontic appliance activation pain.

Keywords

• acetaminophen
• non-invasive treatment
• orthodontic pain
• pain management
• randomized clinical trial
• tens