Unusual behavioural management techniques in Pediatric Dentistry

Abstract

Introduction: Behavioural management in pediatric dentistry is of great importance during dental rehabilitation. Technology and innovation in effective methods and tools for dental treatment in general is abundant and continuous, however, in areas such as behavioural management, where effectiveness depends on the talent of the professional, it is not given sufficient importance. This review includes unconventional techniques to improve patient cooperation during the paediatric dentistry appointment. Literature review: A search was carried out in: PubMed, Scielo and Redalyc, of the subject; from 10 years ago to the present day, 254 articles were found, of which 22 met the selection criteria. Fifteen studies were analysed, of which 3 were on aromatherapy, 2 on audiovisual distraction, 4 on hypnosis, 3 on music therapy and 3 on animal-assisted therapy, where the scientific evidence supports the use of these unusual techniques in pediatric dentistry consultations. Conclusions and recommendations: There are innovative strategies for behaviour management of a complementary nature to conventional techniques, such as: animal-assisted therapy, aromatherapy, hypnosis, music therapy and audiovisual distraction; however, with respect to the sampling presented in the studies, aromatherapy is the one with the most scientific evidence, while animal-assisted therapy has been the least studied technique in the field of pediatric dentistry.