The wand versus traditional injection: A comparison of pain related behaviours

Abstract

In dentistry, the injection of a local anesthetic represents the greatest source of fear and anxiety, especially in children and adolescents, because it is mainly associated with pain and discomfort [1, 2]. Furthermore, severe anxiety and fear may increase pain perception [3, 4]. Although the aim of local anesthesia is to eliminate pain during dental procedures, the fear connected to the needle
puncture is frequently considered a reason for not visiting the dentist [4–6]. Grace et al., summarizing the results from other studies, reported that, in different countries (Belfast, Northern Ireland; Helsinki, Finland; Jyvaskyl ¨ a, Finland; Dubai, UAE; Nor-way; Dunedin, New Zealand; Singapore), among adolescents