Role of Breathing Exercises in the Management of Dental Anxiety in Children: A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/ajm.2026.9.02.20Keywords:
Breathing exercises, Dental anxiety, Non-pharmacological interventionAbstract
Dental anxiety is a common challenge in pediatric dentistry and may negatively affect children's cooperation and dental care. Breathing exercises offer a simple, non-invasive, and inexpensive approach to anxiety management. This narrative review discusses the role of deep breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, bubble breathing, pinwheel breathing, and technology-assisted breathing in children undergoing dental treatment. Available evidence suggests that breathing exercises can reduce dental anxiety and pain perception and may improve physiological and behavioral responses during dental procedures. Bubble breathing appears particularly promising because of its engaging and child-friendly nature. These techniques can also complement established behavior-management strategies. However, variations in study designs, intervention protocols, and outcome measures limit direct comparisons. Further well-designed clinical studies are required to establish standardized protocols and long-term effectiveness. Overall, breathing exercises represent a practical adjunct for managing dental anxiety in pediatric dental practice.
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