Evaluation of the role of music as a nonpharmacological technique in management of child patients

Abstract

Introduction: Behavior management and reducing anxiety and pain are very important for success of treatment. Hence, apart from pharmacological management, such as conscious sedation, nonpharmacological interventions like music play a significant role. This study aims to evaluate the effects of music in reducing anxiety, pain, and behavior management. Materials and methods: This study was conducted at the Department of Pedodontics in 2015. It consisted of 60 patients, age ranging from 3 to 7 years, who required dental treatment with local anesthesia. They were divided into three groups of 20 each. Group I consisted of upbeat music distraction group. Group II consisted of relaxing music distraction group. Group III consisted of control group. We scheduled the treatment in two visits. We used Venham picture test, North Carolina behavior rating scale, and visual analog scale test for the study. Baseline heart rate was also recorded. Results: No significant differences were found among the three groups based on three scales used in the study. Conclusion: Management of child patient in dental clinic is a challenge for clinician. Apart from various pharmacological techniques, management of pediatric patients using audio music distraction has been introduced. However, music did not produce a reduction in pain, anxiety, or disruptive behavior. Clinical significance: Various pharmacological techniques are present for the management of pediatric patients. Apart from it, there is need of introducing nonpharmacological techniques comto reduce pain, anxiety, and to alter behavior of child. By this study, we have tried to evaluate the usefulness of music in child management.