Prediction and Profiling of behavior in 4-10 year old children during their first dental visit- A cross sectional study.

Aim: To predict, characterize and compare children’s behavior during their first dental visit at different treatment conditions.

Objectives:

To predict the behavior of children using behavior prediction scale.

To assess the behavior using Frankl, Holst, North Carolina behavior rating scale before, during, after the procedure

To compare the assessed and predicted behavior

To compare the anxiety of children and behavior management problems exhibited by children

Methodology:

1. Child anxiety is determined using CFSS-DS by parent in the waiting hall

2. Behavior prediction before the procedure:

Primary investigator predicts the behavior using Sharath’s behavior prediction scale at the waiting hall.

The expected behavior is predicted by the parent using a set of questions after briefing the treatment plan.

3. Procedure is videotaped.

Behavior before, during and after the treatment is rated using Frankl, Holst and North Carolina scale by the secondary investigator

4. Child rates the treatment using modified facial image scale after the procedure

Outcome:

To predict expected behavior and compare them with actual exhibited behavior.

The three most important factors involved in a successful pediatric treatment is: The dentist, the patient and parent/care-taker.

So, we aim to factor all these three elements while predicting the dental behavior of the children and profile them.

Clinical Relevance: The quality of treatment is correlated with the child behavior which can be effectively managed if behavior prediction is accurate