SHORT COMMUNICATION |
https://doi.org/10.5005/jp-journals-10063-0145 |
Exploring into the Pediatric Dentistry Management Pyramid
1Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Sri Siddhartha Academy of Higher Education (SAHE), Tumkur, Karnataka, India
2Department of Forensic Medicine, Sri Chamundeshwari Medical College, Channapatna, Karnataka, India
3–5Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, M R Ambedkar Dental College and Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Corresponding Author: Jyothsna V Setty, Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Sri Siddhartha Academy of Higher Education (SAHE), Tumkur, Karnataka, India, Phone: +91 9449819468, e-mail: jyothsnasrikanth@gmail.com
Received: 18 September 2023; Accepted: 26 February 2024; Published on: 25 April 2024
ABSTRACT
The successful execution of dental procedures for young patients depends on a multitude of factors. To illustrate these essential determinants, we have devised a pyramid-shaped model that encapsulates the key components. At the pinnacle of this pyramid lies the child, the primary focus of our attention. Surrounding the child are four crucial cornerstones—parents, society, dentist, and electronic screen (e-screen), forming the foundation of the model. These elements represent the fundamental variables that influence the effective management of pediatric patients.
The pyramid comprises five distinct layers, each representing a specific level of interaction and summarizing the significance of various factors involved in the care of the child. Positioned at the apex, the most vital contributor takes precedence, while the others assume supporting roles in a sequential order leading toward the base.
This innovative Pediatric Dentistry Management Pyramid offers a visually captivating representation of the interconnectedness and relative importance of each factor in optimizing patient care. By recognizing and prioritizing these elements, dental professionals can enhance their approach to pediatric dentistry, ensuring successful treatment outcomes and creating a positive experience for the child and their parents.
How to cite this article: Setty JV, Shetty VV, Sheshadri S, et al. Exploring into the Pediatric Dentistry Management Pyramid. CODS J Dent 2023;15(1):27–30.
Source of support: Nil
Conflict of interest: None
Keywords: Child, Electronic screen, Pediatric Triangle, Society
Successful performance of a treatment procedure on a child patient in a dental office is often dependent on multiple determinants.2 Here is the compilation of all the factors, which is represented in the form of a pyramid-shaped model. The child, the focus of interest, is at the apex or the tip of the pyramid. The square-based pyramid with the four corners as parents, society, dentist, and electronic screen (e-screen) form the important determining variables in the successful management of the child patient (Fig. 1). The five layers of this pyramid depict the interactions and summarize the various factors involved and the level of importance in the management of the child (Fig. 1). The most important contributor assumes the topmost position in the pyramid while the others take the supporting roles in the sequential order toward the base.
Fig. 1: The pediatric dentistry management pyramid
PARENTS
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Role model: Parents should prioritize their oral health and demonstrate good dental habits. Children are more likely to adopt healthy behaviors when they see their parents practicing them consistently. Brushing and flossing together as a family can make it a fun and regular activity.2,3
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Start early: Introduce oral hygiene routines as soon as your child’s first tooth appears. Use a soft toothbrush and water to clean their gums and teeth. As they grow older, switch to child-friendly toothpaste and teach them proper brushing techniques.
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Create a positive environment: Make dental care enjoyable and stress-free. Use age-appropriate toothbrushes with their favorite characters, play their favorite songs during brushing, or use interactive apps that promote oral hygiene. Encourage them to view dental visits as a positive experience.
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Educate and explain: Talk to the child about the importance of dental care and the reasons for visiting the dentist regularly. Using simple language and age-appropriate explanations to help them understand the benefits of healthy teeth and gums.
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Address fear and anxiety: Dental visits can be intimidating for some children. Acknowledge their concerns and provide reassurance. Explaining that the dentist is there to help and that they will make sure their teeth are healthy and strong. Consider visiting a pediatric dentist who specializes in working with children.
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Reward and encourage: Praise the child’s efforts in maintaining good oral hygiene and attending their dental appointments. Positive reinforcement, such as small rewards or a sticker chart, can be used to motivate them to continue their dental care routine.
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Involve them in decision-making: When appropriate, involve the child in decisions related to their dental care. Letting them choose their own toothbrush or toothpaste flavor. This sense of ownership can make them more engaged and willing to participate.
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Limit sugary snacks and drinks: Encourage a healthy diet that is low in sugary products and carbonated drinks. Explain the impact of excessive sugar on teeth and the importance of choosing tooth-friendly alternatives such as fruits, vegetables, and water.
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Regular dental check-ups: Schedule regular dental check-ups for the child. These visits will help detect any dental issues early on and allow the dentist to provide preventive care. By attending appointments together, one can further reinforce the importance of dental health.
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Being supportive: Finally, be patient and supportive throughout the dental treatment process. If the child needs any dental procedures, reassure them that the dentist will make sure they are comfortable and safe. Parents’ encouragement and understanding will help build their confidence and trust.
Remember, every child is different, and it’s important to tailor the approach to their personality and needs. By being a positive influence and providing the necessary support, one can help your child develop good dental habits and maintain a healthy smile.
SOCIETY
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Education and awareness: Society plays a critical role in educating children and their families about the importance of dental treatment. By promoting oral health education in schools, community centers, and through media campaigns, society can increase awareness about the benefits of dental care and encourage children to seek treatment.2,3
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Supportive dental environment: Society can work toward creating a positive and welcoming dental environment for children. Pediatric dental offices and clinics can be designed to be child-friendly, with colorful decor, toys, and entertainment options that help alleviate anxiety and fear. Friendly and empathetic staff can further contribute to making the dental experience more comfortable for pediatric patients.2-4
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Access to dental care: Society should strive to ensure that dental care is accessible and affordable for all children. This includes advocating for policies that provide dental insurance coverage, supporting community dental clinics, and reducing barriers to access, particularly in underserved areas. By addressing barriers to dental care, society can facilitate easier access to treatment for pediatric patients.2-6
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Community programs and outreach: Society can organize community programs and outreach initiatives that focus on pediatric dental health. These programs may include free or low-cost dental screenings, preventive treatments, and oral health education sessions targeted specifically at children. By reaching out to the community, society can create opportunities for child patients to receive the necessary dental treatment and education.
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Collaborations with schools: Society can collaborate with schools to promote dental health. This can include incorporating oral health education into the curriculum, organizing dental check-up days at schools, and facilitating communication between dental professionals, teachers, and parents to ensure consistent dental care for child patients.
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Healthcare personnels: Family physicians, pediatricians, and general practitioners whom the child comes across also play an important role in motivation and encouragement for dental care and also diagnosis of dental ailments and referrals.
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Role models and peer influence: Society can provide positive role models and peer influence that encourage children to prioritize their dental health. This can be done through campaigns featuring popular figures, testimonials from children who have received successful dental treatment, and peer support groups that promote oral hygiene habits and share positive dental experiences.1,2,4
By actively engaging and influencing pediatric patients through education, support, access to care, community programs, and positive role models, society can help shape a favorable environment that encourages children to seek and embrace dental treatment.
ELECTRONIC SCREENS
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As a mode of behavior management, distraction during treatment: Electronic screen (e-screen) can serve as effective tools for distraction and relaxation during dental treatments. By engaging children with age-appropriate games, videos, or apps on mobile devices, dental professionals can help alleviate anxiety and create a more positive treatment experience. This can lead to better treatment outcomes by reducing stress and promoting cooperation from the child.
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Educational resources: Mobile phones and other electronic gadgets can provide access to educational resources related to dental health. Children can learn about proper oral hygiene techniques, the importance of regular dental visits, and the consequences of neglecting dental care. Such resources can empower children to take an active role in their dental treatment and maintain good oral health practices.
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Communication and information sharing: Electronic screen (e-screen) facilitate communication and information sharing between dental professionals, parents, and pediatric patients. Dentists can use visual aids on electronic devices to explain treatment procedures, demonstrate oral hygiene techniques, and show before-and-after images. Parents can receive posttreatment instructions and follow-up reminders through electronic means, ensuring better adherence to the recommended treatment plan.
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Sedentary lifestyle concerns: Electronic screen (e-screen) is like a double-edged sword. When used appropriately, it surely is beneficial, but excessive screen time can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, which may negatively impact overall health, including dental health. Prolonged periods of screen use can lead to a decrease in physical activity and poor dietary choices, increasing the risk of dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. It is important for parents to monitor and regulate their children’s screen time to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.7
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Oral health apps and tools: Mobile apps and electronic gadgets can offer interactive oral health tools and reminders. These tools may include timers to encourage proper brushing duration, reminders for dental appointments, or tracking systems for oral hygiene habits. Such apps and gadgets can reinforce good oral health practices and support the treatment outcome by promoting consistent dental care.
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Over-engagement with e-screen: While e-screens can be beneficial during dental treatments, they can also pose challenges if they become too much of a distraction. If a child becomes too engrossed in a screen, they may not cooperate fully during the treatment, hindering the dentist’s ability to perform the necessary procedures effectively. It is important to strike a balance and ensure that the use of e-screens remains helpful rather than disruptive.
It is essential for parents and dental professionals to utilize e-screens in a controlled and purposeful manner, considering their potential benefits while also being mindful of the potential risks associated with excessive screen time. By harnessing the positive aspects and minimizing the drawbacks, e-screens can contribute to improved treatment outcomes for child dental patients.
PEDIATRIC DENTIST
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Pediatric expertise: A pediatric dentist specializes in treating children, which requires specific knowledge and understanding of the unique dental and behavioral needs of young patients. Their expertise in pediatric dentistry enables them to provide age-appropriate treatments, manage dental anxieties, and ensure a comfortable and positive experience for children during dental procedures.2,3,4,6
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Communication skills: Effective communication is crucial in the dental operatory. A skilled pediatric dentist can communicate clearly and compassionately with both children and their parents. They explain procedures in a child-friendly manner, address any concerns or fears, and establish trust and rapport, ensuring a cooperative and relaxed environment that contributes to successful treatment outcomes.
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Patience and empathy: Pediatric dentists need to exhibit patience and empathy while working with young patients. They understand that children may feel anxious, scared, or may not be uncooperative during dental procedures. By demonstrating empathy and providing gentle guidance, pediatric dentists can help children feel comfortable, ensuring better cooperation and positive treatment outcomes.
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Behavior management techniques: Pediatric dentists employ various behavior management techniques to create a calm and cooperative atmosphere during treatments. These techniques may include positive reinforcement, distraction techniques, tell-show-do approaches, and the use of child-friendly terminology. Skillful implementation of behavior management techniques can help children feel at ease, leading to successful treatment outcomes.1,2,4
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Adaptability and flexibility: Every child is unique, and their dental needs and behaviors may vary. A pediatric dentist must be adaptable and flexible in their approach to accommodate different personalities, ages, and individual challenges. This adaptability allows them to tailor treatments and techniques specifically to each child’s needs, optimizing the treatment outcome.
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Technical proficiency: A pediatric dentist should possess strong technical skills and stay up to date with the latest advancements in pediatric dental techniques and equipment. Their proficiency in performing various dental procedures ensures accurate diagnoses, precise treatments, and optimal outcomes for their young patients.
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Attention to detail: Paying attention to detail is vital in the dental operatory to provide high-quality care. Pediatric dentists must be meticulous in their examinations, treatment planning, and execution of dental procedures. This attention to detail ensures that dental issues are addressed thoroughly and contributes to successful treatment outcomes.
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Team collaboration: Pediatric dentists often work with a team of dental professionals, including dental assistants, hygienists, and orthodontists. Collaboration and effective teamwork within the dental operatory contribute to better treatment outcomes. A pediatric dentist who can collaborate harmoniously with the team and coordinate efforts ensures a seamless treatment process for the child patient.
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Continuous learning and adaptation: Dentistry is a field that continuously evolves, and pediatric dentists should prioritize ongoing learning and professional development. Keeping up with the latest research, techniques, and technology allows pediatric dentists to provide the best possible care and treatment outcomes for their young patients.
By embodying these qualities, a pediatric dentist can positively influence the treatment outcome in the dental operatory, ensuring optimal oral health and a positive dental experience for children and thus playing a significant role in ensuring optimal treatment outcomes for young patients.
LEVELS OF THE PYRAMID
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Child’s cooperation and behavior: A child’s cooperation and behavior during dental treatment are the most critical factors. If the child is cooperative, calm, and able to follow instructions, the chances of a successful treatment outcome are significantly higher.
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Dentist’s expertise and skill: The expertise and skill of the pediatric dentist play a crucial role in the success of dental treatment. A knowledgeable and experienced dentist who specializes in pediatric dentistry can accurately diagnose dental issues, plan and execute appropriate treatments, and effectively manage any challenges that may arise.
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Parental support and compliance: Parental support and compliance with dental recommendations greatly influence treatment success.8,9 Parents who prioritize their child’s oral health, follow the dentist’s instructions for home care and ensure regular dental check-ups contribute significantly to positive treatment outcomes.
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Treatment planning and execution: The quality of treatment planning and execution by the dental team impacts treatment success. Thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, and a well-designed treatment plan tailored to the child’s specific needs are essential. Precise execution of treatments using proper techniques, materials, and equipment also contributes to successful outcomes.
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Access to dental care and timely intervention: Timely access to dental care and intervention is crucial for successful treatment outcomes. Early detection and intervention in dental issues can prevent further complications and ensure more conservative treatment approaches.
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Communication and trust building: Effective communication between the dental team, child, and parents builds trust and fosters a positive treatment experience. Clear explanations, empathy, and open dialogue help alleviate fears, enhance cooperation, and contribute to treatment success.
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Follow-up and preventive care: Consistent follow-up appointments and adherence to preventive care measures, such as regular dental cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants, are important for long-term treatment success. Ongoing preventive care helps maintain oral health and minimizes the risk of future dental problems.
It’s important to note that these factors are interconnected, and the success of pediatric dental treatment relies on their collective influence. Each factor plays an important role in the successful completion of the treatment.
In this pyramid, the factors at the top have the greatest influence on treatment success, while those at the bottom play supporting roles. The child’s cooperation and behavior, along with the dentist’s expertise and skill, are the most crucial factors for achieving successful treatment outcomes. They are followed by factors such as parental support and compliance, treatment planning and execution, access to dental care and timely intervention, communication and trust building, and finally, follow-up and preventive care.
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9. Pardini DA. Novel insights into longstanding theories of bidirectional parent–child influences: introduction to the special section. J Abnorm Child Psychol 2008;36(5):627–631. DOI: 10.1007/s10802-008-9231-y
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