Special Characteristics of Alpha Generation Children Behavior in Dentistry: A Literature Review

Abstract

AbstractTechnological developments and advances have influenced the emergence of a new generation, known as Generation Alpha. This generation comprises those born between 2010 and 2025. Born into a digital-savvy era, this generation has different characteristics from previous generations. This study aims to identify their special characteristics so that an approach can be taken, especially in managing children of the alpha generation in dentistry. A systematic search for articles, published between 2013 and 2023 analyzing the characteristics and behavior of the alpha generation and management behavior found in dentistry was conducted through PubMed, Google Scholar, SCOPUS, and EBSCO. The final analysis was carried out on 47 articles consisting of 10 articles discussing the characteristics of the alpha generation in general and 37 articles discussing the management of their behavior in dentistry. All the published articles found that an alpha child's characteristics are closely related to behavior management in dentistry. The ease with which alpha children adapt to technology is one of the strategies for managing the behavior of alpha children. However, apart from this, the alpha children tend to be unappreciative of the process, which can affect dental behavior management. Specific characteristics of the alpha generation, such as increased exposure to technology, digital media consumption habits, and lack of respect for the process, have important implications for communication and adaptation to patient behavior management in dentistry. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for designing an effective communication strategy and adjusting appropriate behavior management to maintain the quality of dental care for this generation in the dentistry environment.