Prediction of dental behavior problems in preschool children

Aim of this study was to investigate behavioural and emotional problems in preschool children in relation with behaviour problems during a highly stress provoking dental treatment. Eighty one healthy children between 2 and 4 years referred to the clinic of Special Dental Care (SBT) in Amsterdam were selected, based on dental need (extraction of one or more primary incisors). Each child was sedated with oral midazolam. Their behaviour was rated by registering the degree of acceptance during four consecutive time periods of the dental treatment. Prior to the treatment parents were asked to fill in a questionnaire. No significant correlations between temperament and behaviour were found with the total CBCL profile or its subscales. This confirms the results of earlier studies that the relationship of temperament, dental anxiety and behaviour problems is a complex matter and not yet fully understood. It is also indicated that within the entire treatment a child's behaviour is closely related to its behaviour in the preceded treatment step.