462 - Modified Hall Technique to Reduce Discomfort: A Randomized Double-Blind Study

Purpose: The Hall Technique provides a minimally invasive approach for the treatment of dental caries in primary molars. The technique involves no caries removal, tooth preparation or local anesthesia, which is advantageous for anxious or precooperative children. Nevertheless, patient discomfort has still been reported during crown cementation. The goal of the present study was to investigate a way to further increase patient comfort by modifying the Hall Technique to include the intrasulcular placement of topical anesthesia prior to crown cementation.



Methods: Children 5-8 years old with large or multi-surface lesions on at least one primary mandibular molar on the lower right and lower left quadrant are being recruited. Experimental variables were measured by: 1. Utilizing pulse oximetry to record patients heart rate before and after crown cementation. 2. Measuring perceived patient discomfort by using the Modified Frankl Behavior Rating Scale according to the operator, and the Wong Baker Faces Pain Scale, according to patient. The clinical data recorded will undergo statistical analysis once a sample of 20 participants is reached.

Results: Data collection is currently ongoing with a total of 10 enrolled patients thus far.

Conclusion: The present study aims to enhance an already minimally invasive technique. The ability to reduce discomfort in young and or fearful patients can ultimately improve their overall relationship to dentistry and foster a greater acceptance of future treatment

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