Effectiveness of Auricular Acupuncture in Reducing Dental Anxiety and Pain Perception During Orthodontic Extractions Among Adolescents

Launched by THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · May 23, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how effective auricular acupuncture (a type of acupuncture done on the ear) is in helping adolescents feel less anxious and experience less pain during orthodontic extractions (removal of teeth needed for braces). The trial will compare the effects of real acupuncture to a placebo treatment that doesn’t provide any real benefit. The researchers want to see if using acupuncture can lower anxiety and pain during these dental procedures for young people aged 10 to 19 who are undergoing orthodontic treatment and need their premolars removed.

To participate, adolescents must be in good health and have parental permission. They should not be taking medications for anxiety or depression. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either real acupuncture or the placebo during one dental visit, and then switch for their next visit. The acupuncture will be done by a trained professional, and the participants will be monitored for their heart rate and oxygen levels during the procedure. This study aims to find out if acupuncture can help teens feel more comfortable during dental extractions.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Undergoing orthodontic treatment and require bilateral extraction of premolars.
• • Have parental consent signed by their parent or guardian.
• • Medically fit with either ASA I or II status
• • Have not taken any medications, especially anxiolytics and antidepressants
• • The premolars to be extracted should be fully erupted and without any signs of ankylosis.