Behavior Puzzle: Nonpharmacological Behavior Management

Abstract

A child's dental visit may often be associated with dental fear and anxiety (DFA). Children with DFA may exhibit dental behavior management problems (DBMPs), which mostly manifest as disruptive behavior. Children displaying disruptive behavior are often more challenging to treat, require more chairside time, and can result in a stressful appointment for the child, parent, and even the dentist. Factors that are specific triggers for DFA need to be identified, and their behavior assessed. This would help the dentist modify the child's behavior using appropriate behavior management techniques (BMTs) to facilitate the delivery of quality dental care. This article is not meant to be dogmatic or serve as a rulebook or a legal document. It sheds light on some practical methods of assessment of child behavior and communication, the key concepts in behavior guidance. The authors have also attempted to compile the nonpharmacological BMTs used in current clinical practice with evidence from the Indian scenario. They have also shared some of their personal experiences gained in the process of guiding children's behavior in the dental setting over the past two to three decades.

How to cite this article: Asokan S, Rodrigues SJL, Nuvvula S, et al. Behavior Puzzle: Nonpharmacological Behavior Management. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025;18(3):348-358.

Keywords: Behavior guidance; Behavior management; Nonpharmacological behavior management techniques.