Importance of Apgar in pediatric dentistry

Abstract

Introduction: The Apgar test takes parameters of breathing, reflexes, skin color, heart rate and muscle tone. At 1 min it evaluates tolerance level and at 5 min adaptability and recovery capacity. A common cause is hypoxia with a prevalence of 0.4%. The consequences are multisystem alterations, at a neurological level it can cause cerebral palsy, cognitive deficits and seizures. Case Report: An 8-year-old female patient came to the clinic due to 3° cavities in O.D. 55, her history was a normal birth, the mother had several hours without medical attention, labor was prolonged, the newborn required maneuvers to stimulate crying. . The Apgar result was 7-8. She was not hospitalized or in an incubator; However, in the behavioral diagnosis, the patient showed fear and anxiety, presenting limitations for communication and in a preoperational cognitive development stage, according to her age, she should be in the stage of concrete operations. Due to his history and cognitive delay, it was decided to provide his care based on behavioral management techniques and pharmacological management was integrated into invasive treatments. Conclusions: It is important to consider Apgar due to the possible consequences that may be associated with it, such as possible neurological and cognitive impairments, which can alter the perception of stimuli and their response, favoring uncooperative behaviors in dental treatment.