Neuromodulation as an Adjunct to Local Anaesthesia in Paediatric Patients with MIH- A Pilot Study

Summary

In pediatric dentistry, pain and anxiety due to injections or local anesthetics play a significant role in the development of negative behaviors and pose challenges in the management and treatment of young patients. This issue is further complicated by developmental defects like Molar Incisor Hypomineralization (MIH), which makes achieving effective anesthesia particularly difficult due to high tooth hypersensitivity. These challenges necessitate continuous research into alternative anesthesia and pain management modalities for MIH.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) or neuromodulation has shown promise in providing dental anesthesia or serving as an adjunct to local anesthesia. However, conventional devices using electric pads can exacerbate anxiety. Neuromodulation, based on the gate control theory and neuropeptide release, offers a potential solution. It can enhance or replace local anesthesia, reducing the need for repeated anesthetic injections and minimizing needle prick anxiety by either decreasing the sensation of the prick or eliminating the need for needle anesthesia altogether. This approach aims to deliver a more comfortable and pain-free dental experience for children with MIH.

hence a pilot study is taken up to evaluate and extend the basis for further research in this field.