Hand-over-mouth behavior management technique in a solo pedodontic practice: a study.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Behavior Management Techniques

Background:

• The hand-over-the-mouth (HOM) technique is a controversial behavior management method used in pediatric dentistry.
• Understanding its application and outcomes is crucial for evidence-based practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the frequency and patterns of HOM technique usage in a pediatric dental setting.
• To analyze the relationship between HOM usage and patient demographics (age, sex) and history (previous dental experience, medical history).
• To observe the nature of subsequent dental appointments following HOM application.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study was conducted in a single-dentist pedodontic practice.
• Data collected included patient demographics, medical history, and the frequency of HOM technique use.
• Subsequent appointment types were also recorded and analyzed.

Main Results:

• HOM was employed for nearly 10% of patients, constituting less than 2% of all dental appointments.
• The technique was most frequently used on three-year-old patients, particularly females.
• In 89% of instances, HOM was used only once, and these cases were followed by positive dental appointments.

Conclusions:

• The hand-over-the-mouth technique is infrequently used in this pediatric dental practice.
• Its application is concentrated in very young patients and appears to be a short-term intervention.
• When used judiciously, HOM may not preclude positive future dental experiences for young children.