Effects of auricular laser puncture at the depressing, tranquilizer, and master cerebral points in patients with dental anxiety

Abstract

Dental anxiety is an acute anxiety reaction that often occurs in several individuals. Severe cases of dental anxiety may negatively affect oral health because of the avoidance of and delays in dental treatments. Medical therapy has been the first-line therapy in managing dental anxiety. However, it can cause respiratory depression and prolonged sedation. The present study aimed to identify the effects of auricular laser puncture at the depressing, tranquilizer, and master cerebral points on anxiety levels using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Moreover, the effects were compared between the treatment (sham auricular laser puncture) and control groups. In the treatment group, the same procedure was performed, except for the laser pen that was turned off. Results showed that the mean score of the treatment group (15.56 ± 7.188) was higher than that of the control group (5.39 ± 3.867). Auricular laser puncture is more effective than sham laser puncture in decreasing the anxiety levels in patients with dental anxiety.