Behavior Management Techniques Research Articles

An Analysis of Classroom Management Conducted by the English Teacher at a Private Islamic Junior High School

This study investigates the classroom management strategies of an English teacher at a private Islamic Junior High School in Sidoarjo, focusing on time and space management, student behavior, and instructional strategies. The research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies in creating a conducive learning environment. Observations were conducted during two meetings on May 28 and 29, 2024, using an observation checklist based on McLeod, Fisher, and Hoover's classroom management theory. Additionally, an interview with the teacher provided further insights. The results revealed that the teacher effectively managed classroom time and space, scoring 50% in both sessions. However, student behavior management could have been more effective, with scores of 45% and 50% in the respective meetings. Instructional strategies were also limited, with scores of 40% in both meetings. The study highlights a well-organized classroom environment but points to areas for improvement, including enhancing behavior management techniques and incorporating diverse instructional strategies. The implications suggest a need for more dynamic and responsive approaches to classroom management, including integrating technology and fostering personal connections with students to improve engagement and learning outcomes.

The Effect of Patient-Specific Variables on the Need for Dental Treatment Under General Anesthesia in Children: A Retrospective Study

Aim: For pediatric dentists, meeting the dental treatment needs of young children is often a challenge. Behavioral management techniques may be ineffective in underage children or children with special needs. Therefore, general anesthesia (GA) is required for dental rehabilitation of uncooperative children. The aim of this study was to examine the patient population treated under General Anesthesia (GA) in terms of age, gender, ASA Score (American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification System), duration of anesthesia, duration of operation and the presence of systemic diseases of the patients. Material and Methods: In this study, 238 patients aged 2-15 years who underwent dental treatment in the General Anesthesia Operating Room of Selçuk University Faculty of Dentistry were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to indications for general anesthesia. Medical health status and ASA scores were analysed. Patients were also evaluated according to age, gender, duration of anesthesia and duration of dental treatment. Results: According to results, the mean age (years) and weight (kg) of the patients were 5,4 and 19,7, respectively. The gender distribution of the patients was 125 female (52,55%) and 113 male (47,5%). The number of ASA I patients was 213 (89,6%) and ASA II patients was 25 (10,5%). In terms of duration of anesthesia, 24 patients were treated in less than 60 minutes (min), 132 patients in 60-120 min and 82 patients in 120-180 min. Conclusion: Dental treatment operating rooms with inpatient services can serve more different patient groups.

Level of Coping Mechanisms of Parents of Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) stands as a formidable neurodevelopmental challenge, exerting profound impacts on a child’s academic, social, and familial spheres. Parents of children grappling with ADHD find themselves immersed in a multifaceted struggle, not only contending with the day-to-day management of their child’s symptoms but also grappling with societal preconceptions surrounding the disorder. Thus, this study aimed to determine the level of coping mechanisms of parents of children with ADHD in private schools in a highly urbanized city in Central Philippines for the School Year 2023-2024. This study used a descriptive research design. This study used the validated and trial-tested self-made questionnaire to gather data from the thirty-three parents of children with ADHD. The instrument yielded a validity index of 4.51 and a reliability index of 0.845. The coping mechanisms covered three areas: Emotion-focused, problem-focused, and avoidance-focused strategies. Overall, the level of coping mechanisms of parents was high. Subsequent analysis indicated no significant difference in the level of coping mechanisms of parents of children with ADHD. The study underscores the importance of comprehensive support programs for parents of children with ADHD. These programs should go beyond addressing behavioral issues and incorporate emotional well-being and problem-solving strategies. Through workshops or support groups, parents could learn relaxation techniques to manage stress, communication strategies to foster positive interactions, and positive behavior management techniques. By equipping parents with a diverse range of coping mechanisms, they become empowered to effectively navigate the challenges of ADHD and create a nurturing and supportive environment for their child’s overall development. Keywords: Coping Mechanisms, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD, Parents

Comparative evaluation of three different behavior management techniques among children aged 6-12 years in dental practice: A single-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

Dental anxiety is characterized by distress in anticipation of dental visits, which may result in a child's refusal to undergo treatment and, ultimately, lead to parents' reluctance towards dental care. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of the tell-show-do technique, modeling technique and yogic relaxation technique in the reduction of dental anxiety among children aged 6-12 years. The study was an interventional, parallel-group, single-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial conducted on 120 children who required restorative treatment without the use of local anesthesia. The participants were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and were randomly divided into 3 groups: group 1 - tell-show-do technique; group 2 - modeling technique; group 3 - yogic relaxation technique. The dental anxiety levels were evaluated 4 times using both physiological (oxygen saturation and pulse rate) and behavioral parameters (facial image scale (FIS) and the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, and Consolability scale (FLACC)). The data was assessed by 2 blinded and calibrated specialists. Statistically significant differences were observed in all 4 parameters among the 3 groups. During both the intraoperative and postoperative periods, the oxygen saturation levels were significantly higher in the yogic relaxation technique group. Moreover, the yogic relaxation technique group exhibited lower pulse rates, FIS and FLACC scores compared to the tell-show-do and modeling technique groups. The practice of yoga has a positive influence on the general health of the individual. Consequently, it can be considered one of the alternative behavioral modification techniques for the reduction of dental anxiety in children.

Overhauling dental implications in a child with rare craniofrontonasal syndrome: a case report

Craniofrontonasal syndrome is an extremely rare X-linked dominant genetic disorder characterized by features such as hypertelorism, craniosynostosis, ocular anomalies, a bifid nasal tip, and longitudinal ridging with splitting of the nails. Heterozygous females are more severely affected, presenting frontonasal dysplasia and coronal craniosynostosis (fusion of the coronal sutures), while males typically only exhibit hypertelorism. This case report describes the dental management of a 9-year-old female with craniofrontonasal syndrome who was referred to the department of paediatric and preventive dentistry for pain in the lower right and left back tooth region. The patient exhibited a clinical spectrum including microcephaly, short neck, axillary pterygium, clinodactyly of the toes, longitudinal ridging with split nails, pectus excavatum, and underdeveloped female genitalia. Extraoral examination revealed hypertelorism, flat nasal bridge, low-set ears, strabismus, antimongoloid slant, and an indistinct philtrum. Intraoral examination showed a high palatal vault, crowding of the upper and lower arches during the mixed dentition period, multiple dental caries, and poor oral hygiene. An orthopantomogram confirmed delayed dental development. Dental treatment was carried out on a dental chair system using adequate behaviour management techniques with short appointments, keeping in mind the reduced cooperative ability of the child. The importance of this report stems from the limited dental literature available on the syndrome. Preventive measures along with home care instructions were emphasized to support professional care.

Effectiveness of virtual reality glasses versus white noise on dental anxiety in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A randomised controlled clinical trial.

Management of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be challenging due to their disruptive behaviour. Basic behaviour management techniques (BMTs) may not be sufficient, and adjunctive strategies such as virtual reality (VR) glasses or white noise can be employed. To assess and compare the effectiveness of VR, white noise and basic BMTs on dental anxiety and behaviour of children with ADHD. Forty-eight children with ADHD were recruited for this parallel, three-armed randomised controlled clinical trial, which involved three visits at one-week intervals, including examination, preventive measures and restorations. Children were randomly divided into three groups: VR, white noise and basic BMTs. Outcome measures were Faces Image Scale (FIS), Heart Rate (HR) and Venham's Behaviour Rating Scale (VBRS). No significant difference was found between the groups in FIS scores. White noise group had a significantly lower mean HR than control group in all visits. Scores of VBRS in VR and white noise groups were significantly lower than those in the control group during the restorative visit. VR and white noise could be beneficial in managing dental anxiety and improving behaviour in children with ADHD and could be used as adjunctive strategies to basic BMTs.

TRATAMENTO ODONTOLÓGICO EM CRIANÇAS COM SÍNDROME DE DOWN: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA

Dental treatment in children with Down syndrome is extremely important, as these children have characteristics that can influence the proper development of oral health. The treatment also contributes to the development of good oral health, preventing future complications and improving the quality of life of these children. This article had the general objective: To analyze whether the techniques used in the pediatric dentistry management of patients with Down Syndrome help patients in dental treatment in order to avoid a possible worsening of oral diseases. To carry out this article, a systematic review research was carried out in the Google Scholar database regarding pediatric dental care and management in children with DS. The research covered a period of 4 years, from 2020 to 2024. Results and Discussions: Pediatric patients with Down Syndrome present some specific oral changes that require adequate dental attention. They may have delayed development of permanent teeth, with late and irregular eruption. Dental care practices for children with Down Syndrome must be adapted to their specific needs, respecting their cognitive and motor limitations. Conclusion: Behavioral management techniques are fundamental for the pediatric dentistry management of children with Down Syndrome. They contribute to more effective dental treatment, preventing a possible worsening of oral diseases and providing a better quality of life for these patient

The Role of Behavioral Management in Enhancing Clinical Care and Efficiency, Minimizing Social Disruption, and Promoting Welfare in Captive Primates.

Medical procedures necessary for routine care can induce stress in both the veterinary and human clinical situations. In the research environment, nonhuman primates undergo procedures like physical examination, blood sampling, and intravenous drug or fluid administration either as a part of routine veterinary care or during the modeling of clinical disease and interventions under study. Behavioral management techniques, such as training for cooperation, allow caregivers to train primates to voluntarily engage in various medical procedures. This approach reduces stress and anxiety associated with necessary procedures, thereby enhancing efficiency and minimizing the invasiveness of medical care. Consequently, veterinary evaluation and care can be provided without compromise, resulting in enhanced clinical outcomes and overall better health. In this study, we explored the impact of the behavioral management program implemented at our center on a subset of animals undergoing routine veterinary care, focusing on the overall experience, including animal welfare, scientific rigor, and efficiency in terms of economics and time. We investigated its impact on key factors, such as the total procedure and recovery time, incidence of side effects, and welfare indicators, revealing a significant positive influence on animal care. Furthermore, through case studies, we illustrate how behavioral management facilitates timely medical care and monitoring, effectively mitigating stressors that could otherwise impair health and welfare, enabling the provision of care that would have otherwise been unachievable. A thoughtfully designed primate behavioral management program, integrating cooperation and participation with veterinary care, forms the cornerstone of superior animal welfare, enhanced clinical care, and more accurate scientific outcomes.

Trust, respect, and training: Principles of care for service professionals supporting adults with intellectual disabilities in community residential programs.

Background: Adults with intellectual disabilities in community residential programs receive services from direct support professionals (DSPs) intended to facilitate community engagement. As part of a rate study for Washington State's Developmental Disabilities Administration on community residential services, adults in these programs were asked to provide their perspective on the quality and effectiveness of their care.Method: Twenty-five adults with intellectual disabilities were interviewed focusing on daily activities, staffing, and living situations. Interview transcripts were coded and analyzed for dominant themes.Results: Participants emphasized the desire for trustworthy, caring, and respectful DSPs; DSPs trained in behavioral management techniques made participants feel safe and supported. Nearly all participants called for greater staffing stability.Conclusions: People living in community residential programs are profoundly impacted by the stress and uncertainty of DSPs facing limited resources and high staff turnover. Stable, consistent support makes it easier for participants to engage in community integration.

Comparison of different behaviour management techniques while administering injectable la with minimum pain perception and anxiety in children.

Dental anxiety is a frequent reason for reluctance in young children, leading to challenges in delivering effective dental treatment due to their uncooperative behavior. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of different behaviour management techniques while administrating injectable LA with minimum pain perception and anxiety in children. One hundred and twenty children, aged 4 to 10 years, were equally and randomly assigned to four groups. In Group I, local anesthesia was administered while using wireless headphones. For Group II, local anesthesia was administered using a mobile phone with earpieces. Group III received local anesthesia while incorporating the 3D virtual reality eyewear method and Group IV received local anesthesia while utilizing the stress ball technique. Pain and anxiety assessments were conducted using various scales and Physiological parameters such as pulse rate and oxygen saturation levels were recorded and the resultant data were systematically tabulated for subsequent statistical analysis. Virtual reality group showed highly significant result in terms of lowering anxiety and pain scores compared to audio, audio visual, stress ball groups (p<0.001). Virtual group (5.10) also displays significantly highest behavior scores than the audio (1.70), audio visual group (3.96) and Stress Ball groups (2.66). The virtual reality group emerged as the most effective method in alleviating anxiety and pain experienced by pediatric dental patients. Key words:Pain management, Anxiety, Distraction, Virtual reality device, Stress ball, Audiovisual, Audio.

SWEET DREAMS, BRIGHT SMILES: ORAL SEDATION FOR KIDS

Oral sedation plays a pivotal role in pediatric dentistry, providing an effective approach to manage anxiety and behavioral challenges in young patients. The fear and apprehension associated with dental visits can lead to non-cooperation, making it challenging for dental practitioners to deliver proper care. Behavior management techniques in pediatric dentistry have evolved over the years to create a child-friendly and comfortable environment in the dental office. One approach that has gained popularity is the use of oral sedatives to help alleviate childrens anxiety and facilitate cooperative behavior during dental treatments. Oral sedation involves administering safe and carefully dosed medications to induce a state of relaxation, without the need for general anesthesia. Utilizing oral sedatives in pediatric dentistry not only facilitates the dental procedure but also enhances the overall experience for both the child and the dental team.

The Effect of Er:YAG Laser Therapy in Combination with Behaviour Management Technique on the Reduction of Anxiety in Paediatric Dental Patients

This study aimed to evaluate the anxiety in paediatric patients during caries treatment, with Er:YAG laser and conventional rotary instruments, in combination with child-management technique Latent inhibition. A group of 126 6–12-year-old children with one or more untreated dentine carious lesions (ICDAS code 05) on the occlusal surface of a primary molar was divided into four equal treatment subgroups. A standardized caries treatment was performed with Erbium:YAG laser or conventional rotary instruments. In the intervention groups, Latent inhibition was used as an anxiety-management technique. During the procedure, objective and subjective stress parameters were recorded. Statistically significant reduction in mean heart rate and self-anxiety scores was seen in the combination of Er:YAG laser caries removal and child-management technique (p &lt; 0.05). The use of laser cavity preparation in combination with the child-management technique Latent inhibition is the most effective method during the dental treatment of children. Er:YAG laser alone showed an advantage over the conventional method and equivalent effect to the combined use of conventional rotary instruments and behaviour management technique.

A software-based observational coding approach for evaluating paediatric dental pain, anxiety, and fear.

Dental practitioners desire non-pharmacological methods to alleviate anxiety, fear, and pain in children receiving dental care; high-quality evidence, however, is required to evaluate methods' efficacy. This study aimed to develop and validate an observation-based coding approach (paediatric dental pain, anxiety, and fear coding approach [PAFCA]) to evaluate non-pharmacological behavior management techniques for anxiety, fear, and pain. Objective (video-based) and subjective (self-reported) anxiety, fear, and pain data were collected from a pilot clinical trial evaluating animal-assisted therapy (AAT) in paediatric dentistry, in which 37 children aged 7-14 were assigned to AAT or control before dental treatment (restorations or extractions). A coding approach utilizing a codebook, a gold standard calibration video, and a user training guide was developed. Trained examiners coded the gold standard video for inter-rater agreement, and masked, calibrated examiners analyzed videos using the Noldus Observer XT software. A novel, software-based coding approach was developed, with moderately high inter-rater agreement. Using PAFCA, we found children reporting higher levels of pain, fear, and anxiety exhibited treatment-interfering behaviors, including crying/moaning, attempts to dislodge instruments, and more upper and lower body movements. PAFCA shows promise as a reliable tool for assessing anxiety, pain, and fear in behavioral research for paediatric dentistry.

PENANGANAN ANAK TEMPER TANTRUM STUDI KASUS DI TK TQ MUHAMMAD AL-FATIH

Abstract This study aims to explore the strategies used by teachers in handling children experiencing tantrums at TQ Muhammad Al Fatih Kindegarten. This case study employs a qualitative approach using observation and in-depth interviews to collect data. The research subjects are childern who frequently have tantrums and the teachers who handle them. The result of the study indicate that teachers implement various effective strategies to calm tantrums, including distraction techniques, consintent boundary setting, and providing emotional support. Teachers also use individualized approaches tailored to each child’s chatacteristics. Additionally, teachers actively engage childern in activities that can divert their attention from sources of frustration. This study suggests the need for further training for teachers in behavior management techniques to handle tantrums effectively and create a more conducive learning environment.

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

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.

Evaluation of the use of Music as a Distraction Technique on Dental Anxiety of Children – A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: The delivery of dental treatment might be negatively impacted by a child’s unwillingness to cooperate. Judging a behavior-guiding strategy that successfully lowers fear and anxiety during dental treatment, results in a change in the child’s attitude toward the treatment, and is also accepted by the parents is necessary given the variety of behavior management strategies that are available. While conventional techniques of behavior modification have been effective, parents’ and dental professionals’ attitudes regarding them are evolving. New nonaversive approaches that are acceptable to parents are thus required. One such approach that may find favor with parents and dental professionals is music therapy. Methods: Pertinent medical databases such as PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched from January 1, 2001, to April 20, 2023, for randomized controlled trials and clinical studies that used music and no music (control) in children undergoing dental treatment. Primary outcomes included a decrease in pulse rate as measured through pulse oximeter in children undergoing dental treatment. Results: Through search strategy and screening through titles and abstracts, four randomized clinical trials (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation [GRADE] high certainty) and eight nonrandomized studies (GRADE high certainty) were included and the pooled results bared that the music pulse rate was significantly reduced in children who were made to listen to the music than those who did not listen to music during dental treatment. Conclusion: It was established that music distraction was a better behavior management technique as compared to no music group and instrumental music was better when compared to the nursery rhyme for anxiety reduction in children.

Effectiveness of Different Behavior Management Techniques in Pediatric Dentistry.

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.

Practices of Dental Care and Treatment Provided to Pediatric Patients in Private Dental Clinics in Lahore, Pakistan

&lt;p&gt;Background and Objective: With the high prevalence of dental caries among children in Pakistan and the limited availability of pediatric dentists, dental care is provided majorly by general dentists. This study aims to determine the preventive dental care provided to pediatric dental patients by general dentists in private practice settings in Lahore.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 185 general dentists working in private dental clinics in Lahore, utilizing an online validated questionnaire designed by the authors and distributed through email and WhatsApp using a purposive sampling technique. Data were analyzed using statistical software, and p-value of 0.05 was taken as significant.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Results: Most respondents (73.5%) reported the unavailability of pediatric dentists in their clinics. About one-third of the respondents always chose to refer their child to a pediatric dentist. About 48.1% of the general dentists were &amp;ldquo;somewhat aware&amp;rdquo; of the behavioral management techniques. Pediatric-specific dental treatment services were more frequently provided in clinics where a pediatric dentist was available. Fillings were the most frequent (90.8%) treatment services, along with extractions (79.5%), pulpectomies (69.2%), and pulpotomies (65.9%). Notably, 74.1% of the general dentists had not attended any workshop or course in pediatric dentistry.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Conclusion: General dentists in private practices provide minimal dental treatment to pediatric patients, with a significant number lacking formal training in pediatric dentistry. This highlights the need for formal training programs to improve the quality of pediatric dental care.&lt;/p&gt;

Psychological behavioral therapies to improve autistic children’s behaviors during dental visits: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of psychological behavioral therapies to improve behaviors of autistic children during dental visits. Screening, data extraction, risk-of-bias assessment, and evaluation of certainty of evidence were performed by two independent reviewers. Eighteen studies were ultimately included. On average 56% (95% confidence interval, 33.95–78.29) and 64% (95% confidence interval 47.24–81.80) of autistic children can cooperate with dental examination with an oral mirror in the first and second visits, respectively. Visual pedagogy did not improve the proportion of autistic children who can accept dental examinations. Inconsistent results were also identified for Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication-handicapped CHildren, Picture Exchange Communication System, Applied Behavior Analysis, video modeling, distractions, and other conventional behavioral management techniques. Many studies were of small sample size, lacked a control group, did not account for autism spectrum disorder severity, comorbidities, previous dental experience or other confounders, and had a high risk of bias. The evidence supporting the use of psychoeducation techniques to improve the dental experience of autistic children is limited and of very low certainty. Further research with larger scale studies and appropriate control groups is needed to enhance the certainty of evidence in this field. Lay abstract This research review looked at how well different psychological behavioral therapies help improve the behavior of autistic children during dental visits. The researchers studied 18 different studies and found that, on average, about 56% of autistic children were able to cooperate with a dental exam using an oral mirror during their first visit. The number increased to about 64% during their second visit. However, using visual pedagogies or teaching aids did not seem to make a big difference in how many children could accept the dental exams. The results for other psychological behavioral techniques were also inconsistent, including Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication-handicapped CHildren, Picture Exchange Communication System, Applied Behavior Analysis, video modeling, and distractions. Many of the studies were small and did not include a comparison group. They also did not consider factors like how severe the autism was, other conditions the children had, or their previous dental experiences. Because of these limitations, the evidence supporting the use of psychological behavioral techniques to improve dental visits for autistic children is limited and uncertain. More research with larger studies and proper control groups is needed to better understand this topic.

Children's experiences during their first dental visit: A qualitative study.

While the child's first dental visit can shape his/her attitude towards further treatments, little consideration has been given to exploring this experience from the child's perspective. Therefore, the aim of the study was to delineate the experiences of the first dental visit of children based on self-written stories in their own words. Qualitative study conducted as part of the oral health promoting school program in Isfahan city, Iran. Data collection was based on the responses to a question included in the programme's printed educational content. Schoolchildren were asked to explain about their experiences of their first dental visit in a story. Two researchers read the stories separately and identified concepts and themes. In a discussion panel gained consensus about the main themes. Then the researchers integrated and grouped together similar themes to new categories. Categories originating in the data provided insights into and explanations of factors that might influence the schoolchildren's experience in the dental office. Sampling continued until saturation, when no new codes appeared in the data. The childrens' stories were imported in the MAXQD software and analyzed to retrieve the main categories and themes. Factors that influenced experiences appeared to be idiosyncratic, but could be classified into three categories: the person accompanying the child, child and dentist-related factors. Two sub-categories of the person accompanying the child were the role of person in their treatment and the types of persons accompanying them. Dentist-related factors included three more sub-themes of applied behavioral management techniques, their role in oral health education, and organization of the office environment. The three sub-themes of children's related factors were experiencing fear, remembering the details of their experience, and type of care received. Although the method was limited to the qualitative written stories of children and there was no opportunity to explore more and consider the detailed opinions by face-to-face interviews, some noticeable elements were mentioned by children. The person accompanying the child, child and dentist-related factors were three main categories obtained from the data.