Hemodynamic Changes During the Surgical Removal of Lower Third Molars

Evaluation of the effect of dental anxiety on vital signs in the order of third molar extraction

BACKGROUND

Dental anxiety is a prevalent concern affecting patients undergoing various dental procedures, particularly surgical interventions. Understanding the impact of patients' anxiety levels on their physiological responses during dental surgeries, such as third molar impaction surgery, is crucial for optimizing patient care and outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of patients' anxiety levels on vital signs during third molar teeth impaction surgery.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted, including 45 randomly selected, healthy patients. Demographic information was recorded after obtaining consent from the patients prior to surgical intervention. Preoperative anxiety levels were determined using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS). Pupil measurements were taken from the patients before surgery, at 10 min after the surgery began, and at 10 min after the surgery ended. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, and haemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2) values were recorded.

RESULTS

The MDAS test results were statistically significantly higher in women compared to men (p < 0.001). Positive correlations were observed between MDAS score and both preoperative pulse rate (r = 0.344, p = 0.021) and SpO2 level during the operation (r = 0.462, p = 0.001). However, no significant correlations were found between MDAS and DBP (p = 0.575), SBP (p = 0.176), fever (p = 0.238), or pupil diameter (p = 0.338).

CONCLUSIONS

Third molar impaction surgery induces anxiety in adult patients 20 years and older. Vital sign monitoring provides information about the patient's emotional state, both before and during the procedure. Since anxiety causes changes in vital signs during dental procedures, it is important to follow these findings to have an idea about the general condition of the patients.

Evaluation of hemodynamic changes and patient-reported outcome measures in surgical therapy with or without intravenous sedation: a prospective controlled clinical study

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether intravenous (IV) sedation would contribute to the stabilization of patients' hemodynamics during periodontal and oral surgical procedures, and to evaluate the patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Periodontal or oral surgery patients were recruited and distributed into two groups: (1) sedation group (SG): intravenous sedation plus local anesthesia; (2) control group (CG): local anesthesia only. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP), heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SaO2), were monitored at 15-min intervals from sitting in the dental chair (baseline) until the end of the treatment. In addition, a subjective assessment of PROMs was obtained through a post-operative questionnaire.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients (25 in SG and 24 in CG) were included. The highest SBP and DBP were significantly higher in CG compared to the SG (141.1 ± 18.4 and 133.6 ± 15.1, respectively in SBP; and 85.5 ± 11.0 and 82.9 ± 10.1, respectively in DBP), but no mean significant differences were found between groups (P value of 0.85 and 0.72 for systolic and diastolic BP, respectively). HR and SaO2 did not show statistical intra- and inter-group differences. The overall patient satisfaction score was significantly higher in the SG group compared to CG.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous moderate sedation seems to contribute to the stabilization of patient's hemodynamics, especially the systolic blood pressure, although small differences have been found.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Intravenous sedation seems to contribute to stabilize the hemodynamic values, and enhances the patient satisfaction after periodontal and oral surgical treatment in the dental office.

[Anxiety level and physiological response to invasive dental treatments. a longitudinal study]

Objective

To determine the relationship between the level of anxiety and the physiological response to invasive dental treatments.

Materials and methods

A convenience sample of 180 patients was formed (73 men and 107 women) ≥18 years (range: 18-58) undergoing treatment with local anesthetics from three private dental offices in the city of Lima. Measurements were made before, during and after treatment on anxiety according to the IDARE questionnaire of 40 questions (20 trait and 20 state) and their physiological response was evaluated according to oxygen saturation (OS), pulse and blood pressure (BP) measured. with digital pulse oximeter and blood pressure monitor. The Friedman and Spearman correlation tests were used, working with a value of P<0.05.

Results

Most patients had a medium level of anxiety before dental treatment (state 49.4% and trait 55.6%). OS, pulse and BP increased after application of the anesthetic and decreased at the end of treatment, with significant differences (P<0.05). Anxiety scores were significantly correlated only with pulse (state: r=0.238-0.564; trait: r=0.174-0.323) and BP (state: r=0.429-0.699; trait: r=0.312-0.465) (P<0.05).

Conclusion

State-trait anxiety had a positive relationship with the physiological dimensions of blood pressure and pulse before dental treatment with local anesthetics.

Association Of Burnout And Depression Symptoms And Their Prevalence Among Medical Students In Karachi, Pakistan

Background — The mental health of medical students has long been a concern. Symptoms of depression and burnout are common among medical students, but the overlap of symptoms of both diseases with risk factors remains unclear. The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of burnout and depression symptoms’ overlap in medical students. Methods — This cross-sectional study was conducted among students of the clinical course (3rd, 4th and 5th years). A multistage stratified random sampling design was used to select 284students that were offered a validated and structured questionnaire that included a modified Oldenburg Burnout Inventory and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 to assess their emotional burnout and depression, respectively. Chi-square and multinomial regression analyses were done to identify overlapping symptoms of burnout and depression with association of risk factors with dependent variable. Results — Out of 284 students, 13% had symptoms of severe depression, 24% had high burnout symptoms, and 32% had overlapping symptoms of burnout and depression. In regression analysis, higher academic year more than 2 times (5th year, OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.42-7.96, p-value 0.004) and living at dormitory more than 3 times (OR 3.97, 95% CI 1.97-5.01, p-value 0.003) were more likely associated with more extensive overlap of burnout and depression symptoms. Conclusion — There is a high prevalence of burnout and depression symptoms among medical students, with a strong association between the two disorders. Early burnout detection and psychiatric therapies given to affected students and these disorders management training at medical school, may help reduce negative consequences of these conditions.

Steroid supplementation before minor oral surgical procedures in patients taking long-term glucocorticoids: A triple-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing long-term glucocorticoid therapy are administered additional glucocorticoids before minor dental procedures, although this is not supported by evidence. The authors designed this study to validate the hypothesis that routine blanket glucocorticoid supplementation is unnecessary during minor oral surgical procedures under local anesthesia.

METHODS

The authors recruited 270 patients into 3 groups (1:1:1 allocation) from the dental outpatient department. Primary outcomes were changes in hemodynamic parameters and frequency of adverse events among the 3 groups. The secondary outcome was the association of preprocedural stress and procedural pain with periprocedural adverse events in the long-term glucocorticoid therapy group (groups I and II).

RESULTS

No clinically relevant changes in hemodynamic parameters among the 3 groups were found. The authors also found low periprocedural adverse events in all 3 groups combined (n = 1), so they did not explore the secondary outcomes further.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients undergoing long-term glucocorticoid therapy for indications other than primary adrenal insufficiency, elective minor oral surgical procedures can be performed safely with only their daily dose of glucocorticoid when their medical conditions are optimized. Routine additional glucocorticoid supplementation appears unnecessary. The results of the study also revealed opportunities for value addition by means of integrating oral health care with medical follow-up for patients with multiple co-occurring medical conditions.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Routine blanket glucocorticoid supplementation among patients taking a long-term glucocorticoid for indications other than primary adrenal insufficiency appears unnecessary before minor oral surgical procedures under local anesthesia. This clinical trial was registered at Clinical Trial Registry-India. The registration number is CTRI/2017/02/007779.

Assessment of Dental Anxiety and Hemodynamic Changes during Different Dental Procedures: A Report from Eastern Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVES

 This study aimed to investigate hemodynamic changes in healthy adult patients during different dental procedures and evaluate whether these changes were associated with patients' dental anxiety.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 A convenience sample of 119 patients of both genders undergoing routine dental care participated in the study. Participants responded to the Arabic version of the modified dental anxiety scale (MDAS) and a self-structured questionnaire. Each patient had their blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation measured at three points: before, during, and after the dental procedure using an electronic sphygmomanometer. MDAS scores were categorized into no anxiety, mild, moderate or severe anxiety, while readings of heart rate and blood pressure were categorized into no change, increased or decreased and either "no change" or "increased" for oxygen saturation. Chi-square test was used to investigate the association between the study variables and a p value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. SPSS version 20 was used in the analysis.

RESULTS

 Mean ( ± standard deviation [SD]) of MDAS was 11.12 ( ±  3.9) an indicative of moderate dental anxiety. No changes in blood pressure, heart rate, or in oxygen saturation were observed on 39.5%, 54.6% and 97.5% among the study participants, respectively. Half of the participants avoided dental care, with dental anxiety being the main reason for that (26.1%). Pattern of dental visits was significantly associated with MDAS scores (p = 0.042). There were significant changes in blood pressure (p = 0.0003), heart rate (p = 0.01) but not in oxygen saturation (p = 0.33). Changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation were not associated with dental anxiety p = 0.15, 0.10, and 0.99, respectively.

CONCLUSION

 The results of this study indicate that the type of dental procedure may cause dental anxiety and cause hemodynamic changes. Therefore, close monitoring of patients with dental anxiety during the treatment is advised.

Assessment of Clinical Parameters of Dental Anxiety during Noninvasive Treatments in Dentistry

Dental anxiety is a matter of interest for the dentist since an anxious patient is a potential source of complications in the dental office. The main objectives of this study are to describe the correlation between dental anxiety levels and the values of physiological parameters related to dental anxiety and to study the evolution of blood pressure and heart rate over time during noninvasive dental treatments, i.e., not requiring local anesthesia. A descriptive, longitudinal, and prospective observational study was designed. The study population consisted of 200 patients who attended a university clinic for dental treatment without local anesthesia. The patients were asked to complete the Corah Dental Anxiety Scale. Afterward, blood pressure and heart rate were measured by means of a digital sphygmomanometer. Blood pressure and heart rate were taken throughout the procedure on four occasions. Most of the patients showed mild dental anxiety (5 [IQR: 3] points on Corah Dental Anxiety Scale). Significant but weak correlations were found between the level of dental anxiety and heart rate (Spearman rho: 0.166 and 0.176; p = 0.019 and 0.013; 3 min before and after treatment, respectively), as well as between the level of dental anxiety and the duration of treatment (Spearman rho: 0.191 3 min; p = 0.007). As for the evolution of physiological parameters, all patients showed a progressive decrease in values at different time points during treatment. When the types of treatment were evaluated separately, it was observed that there were statistically significant differences between them with respect to the level of dental anxiety (p = 0.006).

Trigeminocardiac reflex during maxillary third molar extraction: Our experience

Trigeminocardiac reflex (TCR) is a cascade of physiological response secondary to the stimulation of any of the sensory divisions of the trigeminal nerve, which is the largest cranial nerve and provides sensory supply to the face, scalp, mucosa of the nose, and mouth. This response usually presents as a triad including bradycardia, apnea, and gastric motility changes. On the another side, transient loss of consciousness or vasovagal syncope, a well-known phenomenon in dentomaxillofacial surgery with its pathophysiology fully elucidated, is thought to be mediated by TCR and sometimes termed as dentocardiac reflex. Thus, it is imperative to know about TCR and its association with routine dental and maxillofacial surgery procedures. It can potentially happen during any minor or major oral surgical procedures ranging from simple third molar extractions, soft tissue surgeries, root canal treatments, or management of maxillofacial fractures. This paper presents two case reports demonstrating TCR which presented during maxillary third molar extraction and author(s) own experience in managing the same.

Psychodiagnostics as a Mandatory Element of Patient Protocols in Dentistry

Objectives:

This study aims at performing psychodiagnostics of the patients` condition with removable and fixed dentures both before and after dental treatment.

Materials and Methods:

The first group included 200 patients with fixed-type dentures, and the second group consisted of 200 patients with removable dental devices. The control group included 200 patients with healthy teeth. All patients were subjected to Fere’s skin-galvanic reaction procedure. Patients also filled out the Dental Status Questionnaire and were then tested following the Spielberger-Hanin Scale. For a comparison of differences, a two-sample t-test for independent samples was used. The Pearson correlation between features was calculated considering their distribution as normal.

Results:

In the control group, the hemispheric activity index increased 1.1 times after treatment. In Group 2, following the dental status questionnaire, the index of hemispheric activity increased 1.3 times in males with a positive emotional mood (P ≤ 0.01). A 2.2-fold and 2.1-fold (P ≤ 0.01) increase was observed among female and male patients with a negative emotional mood in Group 2, respectively. After the treatment, the hemispheric activity index in Group 1 increased by 1.1 times for males with a positive mood (P ≤ 0.01) and by 1.2 times for male and female patients with a negative mood (P ≤ 0.05). Direct correlation was recorded between the increase in the number of scores and emotional mood among males and females from Group 1 (0.72 and 0.73, respectively). After the survey, a correlation was established between the values of the hemispheric activity index and the increase in scores among males (0.82) and females (0.81). There was also a connection between the increase in scores and the level of personal anxiety in both male (0.57) and female (0.66) patients, as well as between the increase in scores and the level of reactive anxiety (0.56 and 0.57, respectively).

Conclusions:

Changes in the hemispheric activity index were shown to be related to the patient’s dental condition questionnaire. Besides, there is a relationship with the type of dental service. The practical application of this study implies that more reliable information about the patient’s satisfaction with the quality of dental care provided can be obtained using not only standard psychodiagnostic methods but also questionnaires on the patient’s dental status. Once the survey is completed and the data obtained analyzed, it is possible to define the correct strategy to restore the patient’s physical and mental health after dental treatment.

[Blood pressure and heart rate changes of 640 single dental implant surgeries]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the blood pressure and heart rate changes and influencing factors during single dental implant surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Six hundred and forty cases underwent single dental implant placement in Department of Prosthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from January 2016 to December 2016 were recruited in this study according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were divided into different groups according to the exposure factors which were patient characteristics (gender, age) and surgical procedures (immediate placement, flap elevation, bone grafting). The correlation between blood pressure and heart rate variability during single dental implant surgery and the patient characteristics and surgical procedures were analyzed.

RESULTS

The average systolic blood pressure variability was 9.47%±6.45% (maximum 46.04%), the average diastolic blood pressure variability was 12.18%±9.39% (maximum 88.00%), and the average heart rate variability was 10.59%±7.68% (maximum 49.12%). The effects of age and bone grafting on blood pressure variability, and of gender and immediate placement on heart rate variability, were statistically significant (P < 0.05), respectively. The incidence of abnormal intraoperative blood pressure rise was 4.69%, of which there were 4 cases (0.63%) of systolic blood pressure ≥180 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥110 mmHg. The incidence of abnormal intraoperative heart rate rise was 6.72%. Hierarchical analysis showed a higher risk of abnormal intraoperative blood pressure rise in the elderly (≥60 years) male patients [P < 0.05, RR=3.409 (95%CI: 1.155-10.062) ] and flap elevation with bone grafting cases [P < 0.05, RR=2.382 (95%CI: 1.126-5.040)], respectively. There was no statistically significant association between abnormal heart rate rise and patient characteristics or surgical procedures (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

There was a certain risk of blood pressure and heart rate variability during dental implant surgery. Elderly male patients and flap elevation with bone grafting were risk factors of abnormal intraoperative blood pressure rise.

Changes in Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate of Patients without Systemic Diseases Following the Injection of 2% Lidocaine Plus Epinephrine 1:80000 in an Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block - A Prospective Study

Introduction

An inferior alveolar nerve block is dental anesthesia produced by the local injection of lidocaine plus epinephrine; however, its administration could cause cardiovascular side effects. We aimed to assess the changes in blood pressure and pulse rate following the injection of 2% lidocaine with epinephrine 1:80000 for an inferior alveolar nerve block.

Materials and Methods

Seventy-one patients without any systemic disease were enrolled in this study. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and pulse rate were measured using an automatic digital blood pressure monitor in four stages as follows: at the rest time (Stage 1), prior to injection (Stage 2), immediately after injection (Stage 3), and 10 min after the administration of anesthetic agents (Stage 4). All injections and measurements were carried out by a single operator to minimize the variability.

Results

SBP and DBP in all stages were within the normal range (lower than 130 and 80 mmHg, respectively), and none of the patients showed evidence of arterial hypertension. Although the pulse rate increased significantly at Stages 2, 3, and 4 compared with Stage 1 (P < 0.05), no evidence of bradycardia or tachycardia was seen.

Discussion

Local anesthesia with 2% lidocaine plus epinephrine 1:80000 for an inferior alveolar nerve block would be safe for patients without any systemic diseases.

Dental Anxiety, Fear, and Root Canal Treatment Monitoring of Heart Rate and Oxygen Saturation in Patients Treated during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: An Observational Clinical Study

Introduction

The present study aimed to evaluate anxiety in patients and to monitor their heart rate (HR) and blood oxygenation (SpO₂) before, during, and after a root canal treatment (RCT) during the state of alarm in 2 different periods of strict and partial confinement.

Methods

The patients who required a primary RCT were selected. Demographic, preoperative, and postoperative variables were registered, including perceived dental anxiety, fear, HR, and SpO₂. Spearman correlation, chi-square, Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for frequency distribution and variable interaction, and Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare HR and SpO₂ between groups and different treatment points.

Results

Ninety-six patients were included. The median Modified Dental Anxiety Scale scores were 8 (interquartile range [IQR], 6–9.25) and 6 (IQR, 5.5–8) in patients treated during the strict and partial confinement periods. The median fear scores were 2 (IQR, 0–5) and 3 (IQR, 1–5), respectively. Having a previous dental bad experience resulted in higher dental anxiety and fear (P < .05). HR was increased in patients with higher MDAS and fear scores and in those treated during the strict confinement (P < .05). In treatment time points T6 (x-ray taking), and T7 (post-treatment), HR decreased compared with the other evaluated treatment time points (P < .05). No clinical differences were found regarding SpO₂.

Conclusions

Self-perception on dental anxiety and fear was similar to other studies in a nonpandemic context. Patients with higher levels of dental anxiety and those treated in the strict confinement period presented an elevated HR. However, it can be stated that RCT performed by endodontists does not result in a significant alteration in patients.

Comparative study of the anaesthetic efficacy of 4% articaine versus 2% lidocaine with adrenaline during extraction of mandibular molars using an inferior alveolar nerve blocking technique

Various anaesthetic agents have been used in dentistry for the extraction of teeth. The most commonly used local anaesthetic agent is lidocaine hydrochloride. Recently, articaine hydrochloride came into existence because of its versatile properties and longer duration of action. Due to lack of study of effects of articaine on various systems, the present study is aimed to compare the anaesthetic efficacy of articaine and lidocaine with adrenaline during the extraction of mandibular molars. A total of 100 patients was randomly divided into two groups (50 each) and clinical variables such onset and duration of anaesthesia, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, pulse rate, and pain perception were recorded at different time intervals using a visual analogue scale. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.0. Mean and standard deviations, frequency distribution analysis, and the chi squared test were performed to calculate variables and a p< 0.05 was considered significant. Statistically significant differences were obtained regarding mean time of onset of anaesthesia (p< 0.001), mean duration of the anaesthetic effect (p< 0.001), and pain perception for the articaine group. No significant results were obtained for blood pressure, oxygen saturation, or pulse rate. During the deposition of articaine, patients reported less pain than with lidocaine. Articaine hydrochloride helped to achieve increased anaesthetic success in dental applications over lidocaine hydrochloride in terms of fast time of onset, longer duration, and less pain, all of which were attributed to its greater diffusion properties.

A Novel assessment tool monitoring the level of patient anxiety during third molar surgery procedure

The authors hypothesized that an audio-visual presentation providing information regarding the removal of an impacted mandibular third molar would reduce patient anxiety.

Aim& objectives

A clinical trial was performed to assess the level of patient anxiety during third molar surgery by using a new induction program and comparing the results amongst two groups that were the verbally informed and the audio-visual informed groups.

Materials and methods

the clinical trial included the patients who required surgical removal of an impacted third molar and fulfilled the predetermined criteria. The patients were divided into two groups - group 1 (no. = 20) the audio visual informed group and group 2(no. = 20) the verbally informed group. For both the groups the HR was recorded beat by beat using HR sensor (polar H1 UK) connected to an ActiGraph WGT3X- 3T USA. Also the modified dental analogue scale(MDAS) was used to subjectively record the anxiety during the surgery.

Results

The HR reading were statistically significant for the following surgical stages; drilling, suturing and upon leaving the clinic. The audio-visual informed group had lower self-reported anxiety scores than did the verbally informed group.

Conclusion

These results suggested that providing an audio-visual presentation about the surgical procedures in our routine clinical practice could aid in alleviating anxiety which would thereby reduce surgical complications.

Clonidine: An Adjuvant to Adrenaline in Local Anesthesia for Third Molar Surgery

Purpose:

The aim of the study is to compare the efficacy of anesthesia and hemodynamic parameters of clonidine and epinephrine in lignocaine for lower third molar surgery.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty healthy controls with impacted mandibular third molar were randomly selected from both sexes between the age group of 20–47 years. Patients were divided equally into two groups: Group I (Adrenaline group) and Group II (Clonidine group). Patients received 2.5 ml of 2% lignocaine with adrenaline (12.5 μg/ml) in Adrenaline group and 2.5 ml of 2% lignocaine with clonidine (15 μg/ml) in Clonidine group. Hemodynamic parameters (heart rate, systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP], and mean arterial pressure [MAP]) were recorded preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively. The onset of anesthesia and duration of anesthesia were recorded using pinprick test for both groups. Postoperatively, patients were evaluated for pain experience by the visual analog scale and verbal rating scale.

Results:

Lignocaine with clonidine intraoperatively and postoperatively decreases SBP and DBP and MAP compared to lignocaine with adrenaline. There was no significant difference in the onset and duration of anesthesia in both the groups. There was a statistically significant difference seen in the visual analog scale, but no statistically significant difference was seen in the verbal rating scale.

Conclusion:

Clonidine has similar efficacy as that of adrenaline with better hemodynamic parameters and can be used as an alternative to adrenaline for third molar surgeries.

Comparison of the effectiveness of Bach flower therapy and music therapy on dental anxiety in pediatric patients: A randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Dental anxiety is a primary cause of missed dental appointments, delayed treatment, and untreated dental caries in children. Alternative techniques such as music therapy (MT) and Bach flower therapy (BFT) have potential to reduce anxiety. Lack of randomized controlled studies evaluating effectiveness of these methods in reducing dental anxiety led us to this study.

AIM

To compare the effectiveness of BFT and MT on reduction of dental anxiety in pediatric patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 120 children (aged 4-6 years) were selected and randomly allocated to three groups: BFT, MT, and control. All children received oral prophylaxis and fluoride treatment. Dental anxiety was evaluated using North Carolina Behavior Rating Scale, Facial Image Scale (FIS), and physiological parameters.

RESULTS

Significantly better behavior was seen in children from the BFT group as compared to the control group (P = 0.014). FIS scores measured postoperatively did not show significant differences among the groups. Children from the BFT and MT groups showed a significant decrease in the pulse rates intraoperatively from the preoperative period. Intraoperative systolic blood pressure in children from the MT group was significantly lower than both the BFT and the control groups. Diastolic blood pressure significantly increased in the control group intraoperatively, whereas other groups showed a decrease.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study demonstrate significant effects of both single dose of BFT and exposure to MT, on reduction of dental anxiety in children aged between 4 and 6 years.

Salivary myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde are increased in patients exhibiting an asymptomatic mandibular impacted third molar

BACKGROUND

To determine whether saliva is a good means of evaluating concentrations of oxidative stress biomarkers, analyzing the correlation between concentrations in saliva and in follicular tissue, and to compare biomarker concentrations in patients with one asymptomatic mandibular impacted third molar (MITM) (before extraction) with a healthy control, and to determine how biomarkers are modified by extraction.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

80 patients with one asymptomatic MITM and 80 healthy controls were included. Saliva samples were collected from all subjects (before extraction in the study group) to evaluate Myeloperoxidase (MPO) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. Follicular tissues were obtained during surgery to measure biomarkers. One month after extraction, saliva samples were collected to assess changes of oxidative stress.

RESULTS

Salivary MPO and MDA showed positive correlation with concentrations in follicular tissue (MPO: correlation coefficient=0.72, p=0.025; MDA: =0.92, p=0.001). Patients with asymptomatic MITMs showed higher salivary concentrations of oxidative stress biomarkers than healthy control subjects, with statistical significance for both MPO (p<0.001) and MDA (p<0.001). One month after extraction, salivary biomarkers decreased significantly in the study group (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Salivary MPO and MDA are higher among patients with one asymptomatic MITM, but these levels decrease significantly one month after surgical extraction. The large decrease in oxidative stress biomarkers could justify third molar extraction despite the absence of symptoms.

Effect of Audio-Visual Treatment Information on Hemodynamic Parameters during the Transalveolar Extraction of Mandibular Third Molars: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Objectives:

Anxiety regarding dental procedures is a universal challenge for every patient and the treating dental surgeon. Measurement of heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation is now commonly accepted by the scientific community as an accurate and objective measurement of the patient's anxiety compared to other subjective assessments. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of educational videos demonstrating transalveolar extraction of mandibular third molars on hemodynamic parameters.

Materials and Methods:

The study was designed as a prospective clinical trial. The modified dental anxiety scale was used to assess the preoperative anxiety of the patient. Participating patients were divided randomly into two groups (verbal and video group). Each patient's hemodynamic parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation were measured in the waiting area, sitting on the dental chair, incision, bone drilling, tooth elevation, suturing, and in the postoperative area. All the analysis was done using the SPSS version 18 software.

Results:

Overall, there were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to hemodynamic parameters. The mean heart rate and blood pressure of patients between both groups were comparatively consistent and did not very much from the onset of procedure to the end. On the other hand, oxygen saturation levels were statistically significantly higher in the video group at the onset of incision and drilling.

Conclusions:

Videos can be interpreted in different ways by patients. Overall, hemodynamic parameters are overall not influenced with videos.

Anesthetic Efficacy of Buccal Infiltration Articaine versus Lidocaine for Extraction of Primary Molar Teeth

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of articaine versus lidocaine, both containing epinephrine, using a single buccal infiltration for extraction of primary molars.A total of 100 children requiring primary molar extraction received buccal infiltration using either 4% articaine or 2% lidocaine, both with epinephrine, with 50 children in each group. The Wong-Baker Facial Pain Scale (FPS) was used to evaluate pain perception subjectively. The heart rate and the blood pressure values were assessed objectively as an indirect measure of physiological pain perception. The Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test was used for comparing mean pain scores, heart rate, and blood pressure in both the groups. Single buccal infiltration with articaine was sufficient for achieving palatal or lingual anesthesia in all the children receiving it while all children in the lidocaine group required supplemental anesthesia. The mean FPS value was found to be higher in lidocaine group and was statistically significant. The mean heart rate recorded during the intervention was less than the mean baseline values in the articaine group, which was found to be statistically significant. For pediatric patients age 7 to 12 years, single buccal infiltration with 4% articaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine is more effective compared to 2% lidocaine with 1:80,000 epinephrine for primarly molar extraction.

Hemodynamic variations and anxiety during the surgical extraction of impacted lower third molars

Background

The surgical removal of an impacted third molar can cause patient anxiety. Such anxiety and the use of vasoconstrictor drugs and local anesthetics in turn can induce hemodynamic variations during the operation. A study is made of the variations in hemodynamic parameters (systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate) and their correlation to patient gender and anxiety during surgical removal of an impacted lower third molar.

Material and Methods

A prospective study was carried out in the Oral Surgery Unit of a university clinic, with the inclusion of 125 patients (mean age 24.9 years). Anesthesia was administered in the form of 4% articaine and adrenalin 1:200,000 for surgical removal of the impacted lower third molars.

Results

Women experienced greater anxiety than men. Systolic blood pressure showed few changes - the maximum and minimum values being recorded at the time of incision and upon suturing, respectively. Diastolic blood pressure in turn showed maximum and minimum values before the start of surgery and during extraction, respectively, while heart rate proved maximum during incision and minimum upon suturing. The differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate, between men and women, and between patients with and without anxiety, failed to reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

The fact that these were young patients could contribute to explain the absence of significant hemodynamic changes in our study. Key words:Anxiety, third molars, extraction, surgery.

Vital signs changes during different dental procedures: A prospective longitudinal cross-over clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the magnitude of vital signs changes during 3 different dental treatments.

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective longitudinal multiarm cross-over clinical trial was conducted. Three dental procedures were performed on each participant: supragingival scaling, dental restoration under local anesthesia (LA), and exodontia under LA. The following parameters were recorded for in each dental procedure: body temperature (BT), respiratory rate (RR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO₂). Three repeated measurements of each parameter were recorded at 3 phases of each procedure.

RESULTS

A total of 150 dental interventions were performed on 50 patients. Scaling caused a statistically significant rise in BT, RR, and SpO₂, and a reduction in HR. Restorative treatment caused a statistically significant rise in SpO₂ during LA. Exodontia caused a statistically significant rise in BT, RR, SBP (during the procedure), and SpO₂ (during LA).

CONCLUSIONS

Scaling and restorative treatment did not significantly impact heart rate. The respiratory rate may temporarily rise during LA injection and some dental procedures, especially exodontia. Increase in systolic blood pressure and heart rate during exodontia was tolerated by healthy patients.

Assessment of patient’s anxiety and expectation associated with hemodynamic changes during surgical procedure under local anesthesia

Abstract Introduction The dental patient’s anxiety and expectation may significantly alter their vital signs. The use of local anesthetics associated with a vasoconstrictor may also alter the vital signs of these patients, promoting hemodynamic changes that may result in emergency situations. Objective To evaluate the influence of anxiety of patients submitted to third molar extraction and the use of different anesthetic substances with adrenaline on their vital signs (oxygen saturation, heart rate, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure) in different moments. Material and method Forty patients answered the questionnaire of the Dental Anxiety Scale (Corah’s Scale) and fear (KleinKnecht’s Scale) and were submitted to third molar extraction in two surgical times for the use of articaine or mepivacaine, both associated with adrenaline. The results were analyzed by ANOVA followed by Tukey post hoc test, Student's t test, and Pearson's correlation coefficients (α=0.05). Result There was no significant differences in saturation or heart rate. The blood pressure showed significant variations during time for both anesthetics, however mepivacaine resulted in a longer postoperative time to restore blood pressure. Patients with high or moderate anxiety and high fear index were those who had positive correlations with the highest blood pressure values. Conclusion Anxiety and fear positively influence the increase in blood pressure. Mepivacaine promoted a greater resistance to the return of normal vital signs, especially blood pressure levels.

Hemodynamic changes and pain perception-related anxiety after experiencing an impacted-tooth removal: clinical practice outcome

BACKGROUND

Dental fear is usually associated with hemodynamic changes. Fear of pain during the surgical removal of a lower impacted third molar might cause patients anxiety, thereby leading to avoidance of any future dental therapy. This study aimed to determine the effect of experiencing a surgical impacted-tooth removal on the pain perception-related anxiety and hemodynamic status.

METHODS

Twenty-seven healthy patients aged 15-30 years (mean age, 24 years), for whom surgical removal of bilateral lower third molars was advised, were included. This prospective, randomized, controlled, split-mouth study involved operations on both sides of the mandibular arch, with a 1-month washout period in between. Blood pressure and heart rate were measured before the surgical procedure, during and after the injection, preoperatively, and postoperatively. Pain perception was evaluated using a 100-mm visual analog scale during the injection, preoperatively, and postoperatively after the numbness disappeared. Differences in the blood pressure, heart rate, and pain perception between the two appointments were analyzed using the paired t-test. For all statistical analyses, SPSS version 11.5 was used.

RESULTS

The mean pain perception values during the injection and preoperatively showed no significant differences between the two appointments (P > 0.05); however, significant differences in the blood pressure and heart rate were noted before the surgical procedure; preoperatively, the blood pressure alone showed a significant difference (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There was a significant decrease in the blood pressure and heart rate preoperatively; hence, experiencing a surgical impacted-tooth removal can reduce the subsequent preoperative anxiety in healthy patients.

Scales used to rate adult patients' psycho-emotional status in tooth extraction procedures: a systematic review

The aim of this study was to review scales used to assess anxiety, stress, and pain in dental patients undergoing a tooth extraction procedure and to propose a novel psycho-emotional rating scale based on the relevant literature and our own experience. An electronic literature search was conducted of the National Library of Medicine database MEDLINE (Ovid) and EMBASE databases between January 2005 and April 2016. Sequential screening at the title/abstract and full-text levels was performed. The review included all human prospective or retrospective follow-up studies and clinical trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and case series that demonstrated at least one scale used to measure tooth extraction anxiety, stress, or pain. The search resulted in 32 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. None of the studies were found to be suitable in evaluating patient's stress, pain, and fear at once. Also, no scales were found that included both the doctor's and the patient's rating. In a few studies, vital signs as psycho-emotional status indicators were rated. Guidelines for a suitable questionnaire that could be used for rating the psycho-emotional status of patients undergoing tooth extraction are listed in the present research. Further studies are required for verification and validation of offered scale.

Comparing hemodynamic and glycemic response to local anesthesia with epinephrine and without epinephrine in patients undergoing tooth extractions

INTRODUCTION

Lignocaine with epinephrine as local anesthetic (LA) provides hemostasis and decreases the risk of systemic toxicity. The purpose of the present study was to investigate and compare the response of lignocaine with and without epinephrine to evaluate hemodynamic and metabolic response in normotensive and type II controlled diabetic patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 50 patients (25 healthy and 25 controlled type II diabetics) undergoing multiple tooth extractions (age group of 20-80 years) were included in this prospective, randomised, clinical study. On their first visit, the patients were given 2% lignocaine HCl with 1:200,000 epinephrine, and 2% lignocaine HCl was given on the second visit, to carry out tooth extractions. Blood pressure (BP), pulse rate, oxygen saturation, and blood glucose estimations were done at definite intervals (before, immediately after, and 20 min after the administration of LA) on both the visits.

RESULTS

The increase in blood glucose concentration following the administration of 2% lignocaine HCl with 1:200,000 epinephrine was statistically significant (P < 0.05) in controlled diabetic patients. Statistically significant variability in diastolic BP (DBP) was also noted in controlled diabetic patients. Both systolic BP and DBPs were statistically significantly elevated after the administration of 2% lignocaine HCl.

CONCLUSION

2% lignocaine HCl with 1:200,000 epinephrine in type II diabetics and 2% lignocaine HCl should be used with caution in normotensive as well as type II controlled diabetic patients.

Does Psychological Profile Influence Third Molar Extraction and Postoperative Pain?

PURPOSE

Our purposes were to determine the influence of psychological profile on hemodynamic changes in patients who undergo surgical removal of the third molars under intravenous sedation and to evaluate the effect on patients' anxiety and postoperative recovery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a prospective study of 100 patients (American Society of Anesthesiologists classes I and II; aged ≥18 years) seen in the CIMIVClinic (Department of Oral Surgery, Casa de Salud University Hospital, Valencia, Spain) who underwent extractions of all third molars under intravenous sedation. All patients were administered the Symptom Checklist 90 Revised (SCL-90-R). The following parameters were monitored at different times during the surgical interventions: systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and heart rate. Position and depth of impaction of the tooth (Pell and Gregory classification and Winter classification), surgery duration, and surgical technique also were recorded. Finally, the degree of pain experienced the week after the surgical intervention was measured using a visual analog scale.

RESULTS

Patients' anxiety levels preoperatively were significantly higher in patients with psychological distress (P = .023). Postoperative pain significantly decreased from the first day to the seventh day in healthy patients but not in patients with altered psychological conditions (P < .05). Nevertheless, the hemodynamic changes were not correlated with the psychological impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous sedation enables the control of hemodynamic changes in all patients independently of their psychological profile. Patients with psychological distress present with higher levels of dental anxiety and postoperative pain. Future studies are needed to further clarify this interaction.

Changes in heart rate during third molar surgery

Anxiety is an undesirable psychological phenomenon. Patients are usually anxious when subjected to third molar surgery, but the pattern of anxiety is unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the intensity and course of anxiety during third molar surgery. This study included 48 consecutive patients (mean age 25±6 years) who had a third molar removed surgically under local anaesthesia. The heart rate was monitored continuously during treatment as a measure of anxiety. Preoperative anxiety was scored with the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale. Each patient's anxiety level was assessed when in the waiting room, sitting down in the dental chair, during the application of local anaesthesia, application of surgical drapes, time-out procedure, incision, alveolotomy, removal of the third molar, and suturing, and at the end of the procedure. The lowest heart rates were recorded in the waiting room, in the dental chair, during anaesthesia, when applying surgical drapes, during suturing, and at the end of the procedure. The highest values were obtained during the time-out procedure, incision, and alveolotomy (P<0.005). In conclusion, the intensity and course of anxiety has a specific pattern during third molar surgery, with the lowest levels of anxiety prior to surgery and directly postoperative and the highest during the time-out procedure and the actual surgery.

Maxillary posterior teeth removal without palatal injection -truth or myth: a dilemma for oral surgeons

BACKGROUND

Pain control is one of the most important factors for successful treatment. Each new measure to control pain has been looked as miraculous act at the initial stages. The improvements in agents and techniques for local anaesthesia are probably the most important advances in dental science to have occurred in the past years.

AIM

To evaluate 4% articaine hydrochloride against 2% lignocaine hydrochloride anaesthesia in providing adequate palatal anaesthesia in maxillary posterior regions, without the need for a palatal block.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

Healthy patients above 15 y of age and requiring bilateral extraction of their maxillary posterior teeth were included in this crossover study. The exclusion criteria included medical history of cardiovascular and kidney diseases, gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration, allergic reactions to local anaesthetic, pregnancy or current lactation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty patients, requiring bilateral extraction of their teeth due to various reasons were enrolled for this study. Each patient received both lignocaine and articaine anaesthetic in equivalent dose at two different appointments. Maxillary infiltration technique was used for extraction of maxillary posterior teeth at both the appointments. A 170-mm Heft Parker visual analogue scale was used to assess the pain on the palatal mucosa after buccal infiltration of either anaesthetic agent. Blood pressure, Pulse rate and electrocardiographic monitoring were done during the procedure. Adverse effects during the study period were also monitored.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Data was analysed by Z-test and student's t-test.

RESULTS

Pain scores on probing palatal mucosa after buccal infiltration of the anaesthetic were more for lignocaine as compare to articaine and it was statistically significant (p <.001). However, for hemodynamic parameters and electrocardiographic monitoring, there was no statistically significant difference in blood pressure, pulse rate and electrocardiograph before and after the completion of extraction (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Four percent articaine offers better clinical performance than 2% Lignocaine, particularly in terms of providing adequate palatal anaesthesia with only buccal infiltration.

Extraction bradycardia: a pilot case-crossover study

Purpose

Significant vasovagal reaction is one of the untoward events in the course of simple extractions. The present study then aimed to record the patients’ heart rate during the extraction procedure.

Materials and methods

Informed consents were obtained in advance. Patients were placed in the dental chair and their heart rate was measured before /and prior to the anesthetic injection, during, and after dental extraction on a pulse oxymeter device. Data were analyzed using paired t-test.

Results

Sixty one patients were included. The mean heart rates of these patients prior, during, and after extraction were 88, 86 and 81, respectively. Two by two comparisons showed a significant decrease in the mean heart rate during extraction compared to the baseline and also after extraction compared to both before and during extraction (p < 0.05 for all three).

Conclusions

Despite the presence of sufficient local anesthesia and performing the extraction with the least trauma, a significant decrease in heart rate is evident.

Comparative split-mouth study of the anesthetic efficacy of 4% articaine versus 0.5% bupivacaine in impacted mandibular third molar extraction

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy of articaine at 4% (epinephrine 1:100,000) with bupivacaine at 0.5% (epinephrine 1:200,000) for surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. Study Design: This was a randomized, double blind, split-mouth, clinical trial. Thirty-six patients took part and underwent extraction of 72 lower third molars. The variables studied were: anesthetic latency time, intra-operative bleeding, anesthetic quality, hemodynamic changes during the surgical intervention, anesthetic duration in the soft tissues, post-operative analgesia and post-operative pain at 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours using a visual analogue scale, as well as any need for additional rescue medication. Results: Latency time was 2.0 minutes for articaine and 3.1 minutes for bupivacaine, with statistically significant difference (p<0.05). Bleeding was greater when bupivacaine was used (p<0.05) and anesthetic quality was greater with articaine (p<0.05). The duration of soft tissue anesthesia was longer with bupivacaine (p<0.05). Differences in post-operative analgesia, haemodynamic changes, post-operative pain and the quantity of rescue medication consumed were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusions: Articaine showed greater clinical efficacy than bupivacaine, reducing latency time, bleeding, anesthetic duration in the soft tissues and achieving higher anesthetic quality, requiring less reinforcement during surgery than bupivacaine.

Key words:Articaine, bupivacaine, anesthetic efficacy, impacted mandibular third molar.

Comparative evaluation of oxygen saturation levels using pulse oxymeter during nonsurgical and surgical periodontal therapy in chronic periodontitis patients

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Monitoring is the global method of observation and data recording in relation to body organ and system function that afford constant information to ensure continuous evalutation of the patient's physical condition. Basic monitoring provides essential information for assessing the vital signs, both circulatory and respiratory, and fundamentally comprises the control of blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) and rhythm. Pulse oxymetry is used to record HR and oxygen saturation. The objective of the study was to assess and compare hemodynamic changes by monitoring oxygen saturation level changes during periodontal surgical and nonsurgical therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in 30 chronic periodontitis patients. Patients were divided into two groups; Group A consisted of 15 patients undergoing surgical periodontal therapy, Group B consisted of 15 patients undergoing nonsurgical periodontal therapy. The hemodynamic changes were evaluated by monitoring HR and oxygen saturation level using pulse oxymeter (SaO₂). HR and SaO₂ were monitored continuously and registered pre-operatively, i.e. 10 minutes before the procedure, intra-operatively and postoperatively, i.e. 10 minutes after the procedure. One-way analysis of variance test (ANOVA) was performed for data analysis.

RESULTS

Both the groups showed a slight fall in oxygen saturation levels intraoperatively, but within the normal range. More decrease in oxygen saturation levels was observed in nonsurgical periodontal therapy as compared to surgical periodontal therapy at intraoperative levels. The differences in the values were statistically significant. There was no statistical difference seen in the postoperative and preoperative values.

CONCLUSION

Most of the hemodynamic changes induced during the periodontal therapy were within normal limits, taking into consideration the anxiety and stress produced by the surgical intervention. The hemodynamic change was more in nonsurgical as compared to surgical periodontal therapy.

Bupivacaine 0.5% versus articaine 4% for the removal of lower third molars. A crossover randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the anesthetic action of 0.5% bupivacaine in relation to 4% articaine, both with 1:200,000 epinephrine, in the surgical removal of lower third molars. As a secondary objective hemodynamic changes using both anesthetics were analyzed.

STUDY DESIGN

Triple-blind crossover randomized clinical trial. Eighteen patients underwent bilateral removal of impacted lower third molars using 0.5% bupivacaine or 4% articaine in two different appointments. Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were recorded. Differences were assessed with McNemar tests and repeated measures ANOVA tests.

RESULTS

Both solutions exhibited similar latency times and intraoperative efficacy. Statistical significant lower pain levels were observed with bupivacaine between the fifth (p=0.011) and the ninth (p=0.007) postoperative hours. Bupivacaine provided significantly longer lasting soft tissue anesthesia (p<0.5). Systolic blood pressure and heart rate values were significantly higher with articaine.

CONCLUSIONS

Bupivacaine could be a valid alternative to articaine especially due to its early postoperative pain prevention ability.

Efficacy of 4 % Articaine and 2 % Lidocaine: A clinical study

OBJECTIVES

This study was undertaken to compare the anesthetic properties of 4 % Articaine hydrochloride and 2 % Lidocaine both with 1:100,000 epinephrine for mandibular inferior alveolar nerve anesthesia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty healthy patients were included in this randomized double-blind clinical cross over study. Each subject received each test solution at different times. Inferior alveolar nerve block anesthesia was used for extraction of bilateral impacted mandibular third molar on different occassions. The time of onset of action, duration of anesthesia, efficacy of anesthesia, hemodynamic parameters and oxygen saturation were monitored during the procedure. A visual analog scale was used to assess pain during surgery, and thus subjectively evaluate the anesthetic efficacy of the two solutions.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were seen in the onset and duration of anesthesia between the Articaine and Lidocaine solutions.

CONCLUSIONS

4 % Articaine offers better clinical performance than 2 % Lidocaine, particularly in terms of latency and duration of the anesthetic effect. However, no statistically significant differences in anesthetic efficacy were recorded between the two solutions.

Comparison of hemodynamic effects of lidocaine, prilocaine and mepivacaine solutions without vasoconstrictor in hypertensive patients

Objective

Local anesthetic solutions with vasoconstrictors are not contraindicated in hypertensive patients, but due to their hemodynamic effects, local anesthetics without vasoconstrictors are mainly preferred by the clinicians. The aim of this study was to compare hemodynamic effects of three different local anesthetics without vasoconstrictors during tooth extraction in hypertensive patients.

Material and Methods

Sixty-five mandibular molars and premolars were extracted in 60 hypertensive patients (29 females and 31 males; mean age: 66.95 ± 10.87 years; range: 38 to 86 years old). Inferior alveolar and buccal nerve blocks were performed with 2% lidocaine hydrochloride (HCl), 2% prilocaine HCl or 3% mepivacaine HCl without vasoconstrictor. Hemodynamic parameters namely systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), saturation rate (SR), rate pressure product (RPP) and pressure rate quotient (PRQ) were investigated before and at different intervals after anesthetic injection.

Results

The hemodynamic effects of the three agents were similar to each other, although some significance was observed for DBP, MAP, RPP and PRQ values in the lidocaine, prilocaine and mepivacaine groups.

Conclusion

Lidocaine, prilocaine and mepivacaine solutions without vasoconstrictor can be safely used in hypertensive patients. It is advisable that dental practitioners select anesthetic solutions for hypertensive patients considering their cardiovascular effects in order to provide patient comfort and safety.

Glucose levels and hemodynamic changes in patients submitted to routine dental treatment with and without local anesthesia

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to (1) observe the extent to which hemodynamic and glucose measurements change in patients submitted to a dental procedure with and without a local anesthetic and a vasoconstrictor (LAVA; 2% mepivacaine with adrenaline 1100,000) and (2) correlate those parameters with the patients' anxiety levels.

METHOD

This was an unblinded, random, prospective, and observational study with paired groups. Patients were evaluated during two different consultations during which they either did or did not receive a local anesthetic/vasoconstrictor.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients ranging in age from 18 to 45 years (mean 30.4 ± 5.5 years) were evaluated. Hemodynamic parameters, including systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, and glucose levels, did not change significantly in healthy patients, regardless of whether a LAVA was administered during the dental treatment.

CONCLUSION

The patients' anxiety statuses neither varied significantly nor showed any correlation with the studied hemodynamic parameters and glucose levels, regardless of whether local anesthetics were used.