Knowledge of behavioural management principles amongst specialist paediatric dental practitioners in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Background: Paediatric specialist dental practitioners are often faced with the challenge of disruptive behaviour or refusal to comply with treatment. Behaviour management skills are an essential component of their role. However, little is known of the confidence or competence of practitioners in these approaches. Aim: To identify paediatric dentists’ knowledge of behavioural management principles as applied to paediatric dentistry. Method: Postal questionnaire survey of all specialists in Paediatric Dentistry on the General Dental Council UK register (n = 234), using the Knowledge of Behavioural Principles as Applied to Children Questionnaire (KBPACQ; O'Dell, 1979) adapted for the dental setting. Information was also gathered on experience in using behavioural management techniques and demographics. Results: Responses were received from 105 practitioners (45%). Participants gave the correct answer, on average, to 38% of the items (range 0 to 75%). Conclusion: Knowledge of behavioural principles amongst paediatric dentists in the United Kingdom is poor, despite their widespread reported use of such techniques.