Behavior Guidance of the Pediatric Dental Patient

Abstract Pediatric dentistry is an age-defined specialty and is distinguished by the art of behavior guidance. Whether introducing a toddler to dentistry or continuing to care for a middle-aged patient with intellectual disability, behavior guidance is essential to the delivery of quality dental care while building a trusting and positive relationship. Treating children can be one of the most rewarding experiences a dentist will encounter. With the proper mind-set, training, and environment, dentistry for children should be enjoyable for both the child and practitioner. The concept of behavior management has evolved over the years from the notion of “dealing with” the child to building a relationship with the child, parent, and dentist that is focused on meeting the child's oral health care needs. Hence, the terminology has also evolved from behavior management to behavior guidance. While behavior guidance is the preferred term, behavior management will also be used in this chapter when referring to previously published works on the subject. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) defines behavior guidance as “the process by which practitioners help patients identify appropriate and inappropriate behavior, learn problem solving strategies, and develop impulse control and self-esteem.” The overall goal is the delivery of quality, safe dental care in an environment that is as pleasant as possible for children and that promotes a positive attitude toward oral health and future dental care. Dental treatment makes great demands on children, and they need the help of a caring practitioner to be able to cope with these demands. Dentists of every personality type can successfully treat children, and like all other aspects of dentistry, behavior guidance is a skill that requires practice, self-reflection, and effort to improve.