Parental acceptance of restraint methods used for children with intellectual disabilities during dental care

This study evaluated 209 Brazilian parents' acceptance of the use of restraint during dental care for their children with intellectual disabilities. Participants were interviewed and they also watched a video on physical restraint techniques, sedation, and general anesthesia. There was a statistically significant relationship for 22.9% of the parents. The odds ratio revealed that participants were more likely to accept physical restraints for their child when parents were over the age of 35 and from an underprivileged economic class and when the children had previously experienced physical restraints. Dental healthcare professionals should consider the individual needs of each patient and consult with the child's family if there is a need to use restraints.