Evaluating the Impact of Acupressure and Xylitol Solutions on Reducing Pain Perception in Children Undergoing Local Anesthesia Administration.

AIM: This randomized, parallel-group study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of acupressure using the Aculief device compared to xylitol solution in minimizing pain perception during the delivery of local anesthesia (LA) in patients aged 6-9 years.

METHODS

Fifty-four children were randomly allocated to either the Aculief group (n = 27) or the xylitol group (n = 27). In the Aculief group, the device was applied to the LI4 acupoint for 3 minutes before giving LA. In the xylitol group, participants received 2 mL of a 30% xylitol solution applied to the side of the tongue over a 2-minute period. Pain perception was recorded utilizing the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale, while pulse rate and SpO2 were measured both before and after the treatment.

RESULTS

Within the Aculief group, significant differences were observed in mean pulse rate, respiratory rate, and pain scores. In the xylitol group, only pain scores demonstrated a significant difference. Intergroup analysis revealed significant differences in mean pulse rate, SpO2, and pain scores, but not in respiratory rate.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that acupressure using the Aculief device may be more effective than xylitol solution in managing pain and physiological responses during LA administration in pediatric dental patients.

HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Pathivada L, Baidya D, Garg N, et al. Evaluating the Impact of Acupressure and Xylitol Solutions on Reducing Pain Perception in Children Undergoing Local Anesthesia Administration. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(12):1448-1453.