TEXTBOOK OF BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT IN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Behavioral dentistry is an interdisciplinary science. The objective of the science is to develop in a dental practitioner an understanding of the interpersonal social force that influences a patient¿s behavior. The foundation of practicing dentistry on children is the ability to guide them through their dental experiences. This ability is a prerequisite to provide their immediate dental needs. The concept of treating the patient and not just the tooth should be the operative with all patients, but is essential with a child patient.One major aspect of child management in the dental chair is managing dental anxiety, a worldwide problem and universal barrier to oral health care. The dentist treating a child patient almost always assesses one aspect of behavior ¿ cooperativeness. Cooperative behavior is the key to render treatment.