Effectiveness of Different Behavior Management Techniques in Pediatric Dentistry.

Abstract

Pediatric dentistry necessitates efficient behavior management methods to ensure successful treatment outcomes and positive experiences for young patients. This research aims to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of "Tell-Show-Do (TSD)", positive reinforcement, nitrous oxide sedation, and pharmacological sedation in pediatric dental practice. A retrospective analysis was conducted on pediatric patients aged 3-12 years who underwent dental treatment at a designated dental center over a 1-year period. Patients were categorized based on the behavior management method utilized: TSD, positive reinforcement, nitrous oxide sedation, or pharmacological sedation. Treatment success rates and patient cooperation levels were evaluated for each method. Positive reinforcement and TSD demonstrated the highest treatment success rates (85% and 80%, respectively) and patient cooperation levels (90% and 85%, respectively). Nitrous oxide sedation exhibited moderate effectiveness with a treatment success rate of 70% and a patient cooperation level of 75%. Pharmacological sedation had the lowest treatment success rate (60%) and patient cooperation level (65%). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in treatment success rates (P < 0.05) and patient cooperation levels (P < 0.05) among the behavior management methods. Positive reinforcement and TSD emerge as highly efficient behavior management methods in pediatric dentistry, promoting high treatment success rates and patient cooperation levels. Nitrous oxide sedation offers a valuable adjunct for managing anxiety and enhancing patient comfort. Pharmacological sedation, while efficient in certain cases, should be used judiciously due to associated risks.