Comparative analysis of the effect of two behaviour modification techniques on children of 4-7 years as chosen by parents and pedodontists

Abstract

  Pediatric dentistry involves not only a high level of technical expertise, but also a positive psychological environment for every child to improve the overall dental experience for the young ones. : The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two psychological behaviour modification techniques (BMT) in managing the behaviour and dental anxiety levels in a child. : A total of 200 children of 4-7 years of age who were to undergo pulpectomy was randomly divided into 2 groups to be managed by two BMTs selected by a poll among Pedodontists which was Parental presence and through a survey done among parents of the children included in the study which was Positive Reinforcement. Frankl's Behaviour rating and child anxiety levels were evaluated. : Both the techniques were found to be similar in effectiveness in handling anxious children though Parental presence lowered anxiety among children much more than Positive Reinforcement especially on first visits.:  Both the modification techniques if used together, can increase the effectiveness in handling pediatric patients in a dental operatory.