IJSR - International Journal of Scientific Research

Dr. Shweta Chandak; Dr. Niharika Gahlod; Dr. Milind Wasnik; Dr. Miranda George; Dr. Sneha Khekade

Volume : VIII, Issue : III, March - 2019

THE CRYSTALS OF A GEODE ARE HIDDEN UNDERNEATH THE SURFACE - A cross sectional survey of children's preference for dentist's appearances

Dr. Shweta Chandak, Dr. Niharika Gahlod, Dr. Milind Wasnik, Dr. Miranda George, Dr. Sneha Khekade

Abstract :

Introduction: In Pediatric Dentistry, dental fear and anxiety are the main compromising factors for the treatment success and overcoming this problem remains a significant challenge. Continuously there is a debate regarding dental attire, whether it is white coat, coloured coat, clinical gown, shirt and tie, casual wear or informal wear. Aim & objectives: To identify the children’s preference on dentist’s attire, the relationship between the dentists’ attire and dental anxiety and the past experiences of children to the dental treatment with relation to dentist’s attire. Methodology: A cross–sectional survey was conducted with 1000 patients between 5–15 years of age who presented to the Department of Pediatric Dentistry. Preference for dentist’s attire was determined by showing photographs of male and female dentist in different attires to the children. Children’s anxiety levels were assessed using Frankl’s behaviour rating scale with four items to be rated from 1 (definitely negative) to 4 (definitely positive). Conclusion The use of child–friendly colours in attires may help in relieving dental anxiety and aid in better communication and can improve the child–dentist relationship, so as to provide a good quality dental treatment.