Comparative Study of Different Behavioral Management Techniques in Treating Anxious Pediatric Dental Patients

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ABSTRACT Background: Pediatric dental anxiety poses a significant challenge in the delivery of dental care, often resulting in compromised treatment outcomes and negative experiences for both patients and dental professionals. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted involving 120 pediatric dental patients aged 4 to 10 years old, presenting with varying degrees of dental anxiety. Patients were randomly assigned to three groups: Group A received tell-show-do (TSD) technique, Group B received audiovisual distraction (AVD), and Group C received non-pharmacological behavior guidance (NPBG). Anxiety levels were assessed using a standardized anxiety scale before and after the dental procedure. Patient cooperation during treatment, as well as dentist and parent satisfaction, was also evaluated. Results: The study revealed significant reductions in anxiety levels across all groups post-treatment. However, Group B (AVD) demonstrated the most substantial reduction in anxiety scores, with a mean decrease of 60% from baseline. Group A (TSD) and Group C (NPBG) showed comparable reductions in anxiety levels, with mean decreases of 45% and 50%, respectively. Patient cooperation during treatment was highest in Group B, followed by Groups C and A. Dentist and parent satisfaction scores were significantly higher in Group B compared to the other groups. Conclusion: AVD emerged as the most effective behavioral management technique for treating anxious pediatric dental patients, resulting in significant reductions in anxiety levels and higher levels of patient cooperation during treatment compared to TSD and NPBG techniques.