Abstract
Aim
The
aim of the present prospective study was to evaluate the impact of a
computer-controlled anesthesia on patients' comfort and to investigate,
through the willingness-to-pay (WTP) index, and patients' acceptance of
this new technology.
Methods
Fifty
patients undergoing a class I or II restorative procedure were
enrolled. A computer-controlled device for anesthetic delivery was
utilized, and a questionnaire on the level of discomfort and WTP was
given to all patients.
Results
A
total of 86% of participants declared less discomfort than that
perceived during their last traditional procedure for pain control; 58%
of patients were willing to pay an additional fee for a modern
anesthesia technique, with a median WTP value of 20$.
Conclusions
Computer-controlled
systems for local anesthesia represent a relevant tool for reducing
patients' discomfort during dental treatment. The WTP index helps to
quantify its relevance.
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