Comparative evaluation of a novel dual sensory stimulation technique for reducing dental anxiety and improving behavior in pediatric patients: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Dental anxiety can compromise children's cooperation during dental treatment. Although distraction is widely used for behavior guidance, evidence comparing dual-sensory distraction techniques with conventional management remains limited. This study evaluated the effectiveness of audiovisual and visual-olfactory dual-sensory stimulation for reducing dental anxiety and improving behavior in pediatric patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized controlled trial included 138 healthy pediatric patients aged 4-7 years who were allocated equally to audiovisual distraction, visual-olfactory distraction using jasmine oil, or tell-show-do management. Anxiety and behavior were assessed before and after treatment using the Chhota Bheem-Chutki Scale and Venham's Picture Test. Pulse rate and oxygen saturation (SpO2) were also recorded. Data were analyzed using a paired t -test, one-way analysis of variance, and Kruskal-Wallis test, with significance set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Both dual-sensory distraction techniques significantly reduced anxiety and improved cooperative behavior. Compared with Tell-Show-Do, both interventions produced better post-treatment behavioral outcomes; audiovisual distraction additionally showed a significant improvement in SpO2. Pulse-rate reduction was comparable among groups. CONCLUSION: Dual-sensory distraction is an effective non-pharmacological strategy for managing anxiety and improving behavior in pediatric dental patients, with audiovisual distraction showing greater effectiveness.