Effectiveness of guided imagery and neuro-linguistic programming for reducing dental anxiety in children aged 6–13 years undergoing local anaesthesia: A randomised clinical trial

Geetanjali Jadhav1 image, Preetam Shah2 image, Rahul Hegde3 image, Anand Shigli4 image, Pawan Herkar5 image

Highlights

Guided imagery and neuro-linguistic
programming are effective nonpharmacological methods to reduce dental anxiety in children.

Neuro-linguistic programming worked across all ages, while guided imagery was most effective for younger children aged 6–9 years.

These methods may reduce sedation use, improve cooperation, and promote positive dental  experiences.

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of GI, NLP, and conventional behavioural management techniques in reducing dental anxiety among children aged 6–13 years receiving local anaesthesia. Methods: A triple-blind, randomised clinical trial was conducted with 132 healthy children. Participants were allocated to GI (n = 44), NLP (n = 46), or conventional management (n = 42). Physiological parameters (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and oxygen saturation) and behavioural responses (Modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale, mYPAS) were assessed before and after intervention. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post-hoc test, and a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Both GI and NLP produced significantly greater reductions in anxiety-related physiological and behavioural measures compared with the conventional group (e.g., systolic blood pressure: GI Δ = −3.82 mmHg, NLP Δ = −2.24 mmHg, control Δ = +0.47 mmHg; F (2,129) = 14.8). GI achieved the greatest improvement in heart rate (Δ = −3.48 bpm) and mYPAS scores (mean reduction = 3.1; 95% CI: −3.7 to −2.5), with particularly strong effects in younger children (6–9 years). NLP was effective across all age groups. The conventional group showed only modest improvement. Conclusions: GI and NLP are effective, non-invasive strategies for managing dental anxiety in pediatric patients. Their application in routine practice could enhance cooperation and reduce the need for pharmacological sedation. Large-scale, multi-centre trials are recommended to confirm these findings and explore long-term benefits.

Keywords: Behavior Therapy; Dental Anxiety; Imagery; Pain Management; Psychotherapy

Author Affiliations

  1. MDS, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, D Y Patil Dental School, India

  2. MDS, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Bharti Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University Dental College and Hospital, India

  3. MDS, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, D Y Patil Dental School, India

  4. MDS, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, D Y Patil Dental School, India

  5. MDS, Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, D Y Patil Dental School, India (Correspondence:pavanherkar@gmail.com)

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Article Info

Contemp Pediatr Dent 2025:6(2):135-148

Received: 29 May 2025

Accepted: 01 August 2025

Online First: 11 August 2025

DOI: 10.51463/cpd.2025.29

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					Geetanjali Jadhav, Preetam Shah, Rahul Hegde, Anand Shigli, Pawan Herkar. Effectiveness of guided imagery and neuro-linguistic programming for reducing dental anxiety in children aged 6–13 years undergoing local anaesthesia: A randomised clinical trial. Contemp Pediatr Dent 2025:6(2):135-148

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