Impact of dentistry modeling story on dental anxiety in 6-8-year-old children of industrial workers: A randomized controlled trial.

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a specially designed dentistry modelling story on dental anxiety and managing behavior among children of industrial workers.

Materials and methods: Two hundred and ten children of age 6-8 years, at their first dental visit, were randomly assigned to one of the two groups: Intervention group - Group A (n = 105) who received a specially designed dentistry modeling story followed by Tell, Show, Do (TSD) technique of behavior guidance; and control group - Group B (n = 105) who received a folk story, not related to dentistry and TSD. Situational anxiety for the children was assessed using the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale-face version (MCDAS-f) before and after storytelling. Single session of identical dental treatment was provided to the two groups, which included dental and radiographic examination followed by restorative treatment in any one tooth. Child's behavior during the dental procedure was assessed using Frankl Behavior Rating Scale. After completion of treatment, parents were asked for their preference of the behavior management method used.

Results: Children in both the groups showed a significant reduction in anxiety after storytelling (P < 0.001). No significant difference was found in the anxiety and behavior of the children between the two groups (P > 0.05). Dentistry modeling story received significantly higher preference as compared to folk story by the parents (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Both dentistry modeling story and folk story can be effective, inexpensive methods, to reduce short-term dental anxiety.