The Dental Learning Network

Managing the Pediatric Dental Patient

Introduction


How to Take This Course

Course Objectives

Introduction

About the Author

Begin Course

Post Examination

Download Course

Exit to Main Menu





The goals of behavior management in dentistry are to establish effective communication, to alleviate patient fear and anxiety and build a trusting relationship with the patient that will ultimately allow the dentist to deliver quality dental care and promote in the patient a positive attitude towards dental care and oral health.

Behavioral management of this diverse group (including children and adolescents under age 21 years, patients who present behavioral challenges due to mental, physical or medical disabilities) has been traditionally considered to fall into two areas, Basic Behavior Guidance Techniques and Advanced Behavior Guidance. This course examines each of these areas in detail and offers advice in the use of basic management techniques (Tell-show-do (TSD), modeling and distraction) that can be applied in the dental office. Advanced management modalities (physical management, aversive management and pharmacologic management) are discussed but their use will require further training to satisfy professional board requirements.

Continue on to About the Author