The Effect of Electroacupuncture (EA) on the Success of Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block (IANB) and Post-operative Pain Relief in Mandibular Molar With Symptomatic Irreversible Pulpitis (SIP) Among Malaysians: A Study Protocol for Randomized Double-Blinded Clinical Pilot Study

Acupuncture is recognized for its pain relief effect. Electroacupuncture(EA) is a form of acupuncture where electric current is passed between pairs of acupuncture needles in order to achieve therapeutic effect. However, there are significantly low number of studies which have discussed the effect of electroacupuncture on dental treatment. Symptomatic irreversible pulpitis is a common condition among dental patients. The success rate of inferior alveolar nerve block before commencing the endodontic treatment of a tooth diagnosed with SIP is reported to be relatively as low as 25%. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of electroacupuncture on the success rate of inferior alveolar nerve block and post-operative pain relief for symptomatic irreversible pulpitis among Malaysians.