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ABSTRACTUnderstanding the parent/child dynamic is important in the delivery of person-centered dental care to the child. However, the nature of parenting has changed and understanding of child development has continued to develop, affecting the ability of dentists to influence child behavior. The purpose of this paper is to review generational differences, the impact of parenting on child development and changes in approval of behavior guidance techniques to propose new approaches to child behavior.

ABSTRACTThere are a number of reasons for a child to misbehave in the dental setting. The aim of this study was to compare provider ratings of fear and defiance to standardized assessments of children’s fear and defiance. Results suggest that misbehavior by defiant children in the dental setting is frequently thought to be related to fear. Providers may not be able to accurately distinguish between defiance and fear.

ABSTRACTPremature loss of primary teeth can result in a loss of arch length and have a negative effect on occlusion and alignment, often increasing the need for orthodontic treatment. Use of space maintainers can reduce the severity of problems such as crowding, ectopic eruption, tooth impaction and poor molar relationship. This article presents a review of the consequences of premature tooth loss and discusses the appliances commonly used for space maintenance.

ABSTRACTBehavior management is significant to delivery of dental care to the child. We must be able to elicit cooperation of the child for dental procedures, and of child and parents, for adherence to a preventive home care regimen. However, society has changed, affecting the ability of dentists to influence children and their parents. The purpose of this paper is to review changes in parenting styles that have impacted the nature of oral care in the child.

ABSTRACTOne of the difficulties of the practice of dentistry is being responsible for the highest quality of care for patients while often having to propose alternate solutions for a variety of reasons, which include financial concerns. Dental practitioners treating young children have the added responsibility of gaining their patient’s cooperation to render the best treatment. Determinants that influence the development of a behavioral strategy for a young patient include disease status, the child’s physical and mental development, parental characteristics, and provider personality and capabilities. Classic strategies — including a supportive office environment, “tell-show-do,” successive approximation, distraction, behavior shaping, and retraining — must be matched to the characteristics of each child and family situation. Current cultural trends suggest that disciplinary forms of behavior management strategies — such as hand-over-mouth, physical restraint, and even voice control — are losing societal acceptance.