Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate changes in treatment patterns within pediatric dentistry departments by analyzing the distribution of patients and treatment trends. To that end, treatment charts based on electronic medical records (EMR) from the Yonsei University Dental Hospital from 2008 to 2012 were collected and analyzed. The results showed a decrease in the number of new patients and patients cared for by non-specialists, while the number of foreign patients has increased. The under 2 years-old group accounted for a large portion of new patients. Dental caries, dental trauma, and malocclusion ranked as the top complaints. In terms of restoration treatment, the proportion of patients receiving composite resin, amalgam, and sealant has decreased, whereas self-curing glass ionomer and preventive resin restoration have increased. Single-visit endodontic treatment has been increasing, with a decreasing trend in multi-visit endodontic treatment. The rate of conservative pulp treatment, such as pulp capping and pulpotomy, has increased. For reducing patient anxiety, treatments under sedation have increased, especially with the use of nitric oxide. This investigation into the latest treatment trends and patient characteristics is expected to help pediatric dentists to make appropriate treatment plans.

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