Archive | 2021
Management of Gagging and Anxiety in Children by Play Way Method
Abstract
Introduction: The gag reflex (GR) is an innate healthy defense mechanism that helps prevent foreign bodies from entering the trachea. Psychological, anatomic, iatrogenic, local, and systemic factors influence the GR. The pharyngeal reflex that prevents choking involves five triggering zones in the oral cavity: the palatoglossal and palatopharyngeal folds, the post-pharyngeal wall, the uvula, the palate, and the base of the tongue. So, this study is undertaken to determine gag reflux using the Intellectual Colored game distraction technique during the dental impression. \nAim: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of distraction using the intellectual colored game (ICG) on the severity of GR and anxiety in children during the dental impression. \nMethodology: 50 children aged between 5 to 11 years, needing upper alginate impressions will be selected for the study and will be divided into 2 groups of 25 each. Children’s baseline anxiety will be evaluated according to the Buchanan’s Facial Image Scale (FIS) before any impression attempt. In Group 1 the upper alginate impression will be taken without playing ICG and group 2 upper alginate impressions will be taken while playing ICG. \nResult: Statistical analysis showed that 28% and 76% of children from the control and treatment groups respectively had a higher level of anxiety before the use of the distraction technique. However, 12% and 4% of children had higher anxiety after the use of distraction technique and a statistically significant change in anxiety in the treatment group with existing anxiety level (Z = -3.412, p = 0.001) was observed. \nConclusion: Intellectual distraction is a safe, successful & cost-effective method for gag reflux management in pediatric dentistry. The Intellectual coloured game diverted the child’s attention during the stressful alginate impression, henceforth it should be considered to further advance behaviour management techniques.