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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
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Published on: March 27, 2026
Predictive factors for child behaviour in the dental environment
M L Ramos-Jorge1, L S Marques, S M Pavia
1Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil. mlrjorge@hotmail.com
Summary
Children’s anxiety, prior toothache, and previous uncooperative medical experiences predict uncooperative behavior during their first dental visit. Identifying these factors can improve initial pediatric dental appointments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Child Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Understanding factors influencing child behavior in dental settings is crucial for effective treatment.
- First dental visits can be challenging for young children, impacting future dental attitudes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify potential factors influencing the behavior of young children (48-68 months) during their initial dental visit.
- To evaluate the role of anxiety, past dental pain, and prior medical experiences on behavior.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 118 children aged 48-68 months with no prior dental visits.
- Child behavior assessed using the Frankl scale; maternal anxiety measured by Manifest Anxiety Scale (MAS).
- Child anxiety assessed using the Venham Picture Test (VPT); medical and socioeconomic history collected.
Main Results:
- High child anxiety, history of toothache, and prior uncooperative medical experiences were associated with uncooperative behavior.
- These factors increased the likelihood of negative behavior during the first dental consultation.
Conclusions:
- Predictive factors for uncooperative behavior in pediatric dental patients can be identified before the first visit.
- Incorporating questions about anxiety, pain history, and prior medical experiences aids in managing behavior and fostering positive dental interactions.
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