Narrated audiovisual tools improve instruction comprehension and reduce anxiety in mandibular third molar extractionsAudiovisual Tools Reduce Anxiety and Improve Understanding for Dental Patients

Journal of stomatology, oral and maxillofacial surgery Published October 7, 2026 Study authors: Chanteux Solène, Héloire Nicolas, Potier Julien, Taieb Talel PubMed ↗ DOI ↗ Editorial oversight: Dr. Sofia Müller, MD · Lifespan & Whole-Person Care

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Key Takeaway

Consider using narrated audiovisual tools to improve instruction comprehension and reduce anxiety in patients undergoing extractions.

This pilot randomized controlled trial enrolled 200 patients undergoing extraction of at least two impacted mandibular third molars under general anesthesia. The study compared a narrated audiovisual tool against a written leaflet to assess patient outcomes and information retention.

Patients in the video group demonstrated significantly higher postoperative instruction comprehension scores (6.80 vs. 6.17 on a 7-point MCQ scale, p < 0.001). Additionally, the video group experienced a greater reduction in immediate anxiety compared to the leaflet group (-2.61 vs. -1.21 points on a 10-point VAS, p < 0.001). Regarding patient preference, 76% of participants preferred the video format.

No adverse events or safety data were reported. As a pilot study, the findings are preliminary and may have limited generalizability. However, the randomized design suggests a causal link between the delivery mode and improved patient outcomes. Audiovisual tools may be a more effective method for delivering postoperative instructions than traditional written materials in oral surgery settings.

A pilot study looked at how patients feel and learn when preparing for the removal of impacted wisdom teeth under general anesthesia. Researchers compared two methods of giving instructions: a narrated audiovisual tool and a standard written leaflet. The study included 200 patients divided into two equal groups.

Patients who watched the narrated video showed a significantly higher level of understanding regarding their postoperative instructions. They also reported a greater reduction in anxiety compared to those who only received the written leaflet. Additionally, 76% of the participants expressed a preference for the video format over the written materials.

Because this was a pilot study, the results are preliminary and the sample size was relatively small. However, the findings suggest that using videos can be a helpful way to support patients before surgery. You should talk with your dental provider to see if these tools are available for your specific procedure.

What this means for you:

Narrated videos may help patients understand instructions better and feel less anxious before wisdom tooth surgery.

Common questions

How does a video help with anxiety before surgery?

The study found that patients who used a narrated audiovisual tool experienced a greater reduction in anxiety compared to those who received a written leaflet. This suggests that visual and audio instructions may be more comforting for patients preparing for wisdom tooth extractions under general anesthesia.

Do patients understand instructions better with videos?

Yes, the study showed that patients in the video group had significantly higher comprehension of their postoperative instructions. They scored higher on a 7-point scale compared to those who were only given a written leaflet.

Do patients prefer videos over written instructions?

The study found that 76% of the participants preferred the video format over the written leaflet. This indicates a strong patient preference for audiovisual tools when receiving information about their upcoming dental procedures.

Study Details

Study typeRct

Sample sizen = 100

EvidenceLevel 2

PublishedOct 2026

PMID42128350

View Original Abstract ↓

INTRODUCTION: Patient education is a critical determinant of postoperative outcomes. Effective communication optimizes recovery, reduces complication rates, and alleviates patient anxiety. While written leaflets remain standard, their impact is increasingly questioned in the digital era. Audiovisual tools may engage multiple cognitive channels, improve recall, and attenuate anxiety by enhancing predictability and perceived control. This pilot study compared the effects of a narrated audiovisual tool versus a written leaflet (same validated content) on postoperative instruction comprehension and immediate anxiety after mandibular third molar extraction. The second objective was to evaluate patients preferences regarding information delivery tool. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 200 patients undergoing extraction of at least two impacted mandibular third molars under general anesthesia were randomized 1:1 to receive either a written leaflet (Group A, n = 100) or a narrated audiovisual video with identical content (Group B, n = 100). Anxiety was measured after surgery using a visual analog scale (VAS, 0-10) before and after exposure to the attributed information tool. Comprehension was assessed using a validated 7-item multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ). RESULTS: Anxiety decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.001), with a greater reduction in the video group compared to the leaflet group (-2.61 vs. -1.21 points, 10-point VAS). Comprehension scores were high overall, but significantly higher in the video group (6.80 vs. 6.17 on a 7-point MCQ scale; p < 0.001). Overall, 76% of participants preferred the video format. DISCUSSION: This study demonstrates that audiovisual tools significantly improve comprehension and more effectively reduce postoperative anxiety compared to written instructions. By reinforcing predictability, fostering dual-channel encoding, and reducing uncertainty, audiovisual information delivery may represent a clinically relevant strategy to optimize perioperative care.

Narrated audiovisual tools improve instruction comprehension and reduce anxiety in mandibular third molar extractionsAudiovisual Tools Reduce Anxiety and Improve Understanding for Dental Patients

Common questions

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Narrated audiovisual tools improve instruction comprehension and reduce anxiety in mandibular third molar extractionsAudiovisual Tools Reduce Anxiety and Improve Understanding for Dental Patients

Common questions

Study Details

Health warnings on social media perceived as more effective than neutral messages in teens

Social Media Warnings May Discourage Use in Teens

Clinical research that matters. Delivered to your inbox.

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