Evaluation of words in child-paediatric dentist communication

Authors:

ABSTRACT

Aim

Aim of the present study is to demonstrate which words are widely used by children and a paediatric dentist during
different dental procedures in conjunction with behaviour shaping in paediatric dentistry.

Methods

Twenty children
aged between 3.5 and 10.5 (10 F, 10 M) visiting the clinic of Yeditepe University were enrolled for the study. An audio recorder was
hidden in the operatory room, the paediatric dentist was blind. The procedure was randomised as for each child oly one appoint-ment
was recorded (one patient-one appointment-one procedure). Age, gender, appointment type, details of procedure performed were
recorded. At the end of every session, records were investigated regarding verbal communication.

Results

The paediatric dentist
used a total of 5,005 words during the trial with minimum of 13 and max of 518 words in a session (mean 211.8153.1). There
were no significant differences in the words used by the child and the practitioner regarding gender, session, and duration of being
acquainted with (p>0.05). Regarding age groups, preschoolers (3.5-6 yrs old) significantly used more words than the schoolers (7-
10.5 yrs old)(p<0.05).

Conclusion

Paediatric dentists should be careful and selective in communication with children as well as
using an age-appropriate language.

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