5.4 Advanced Behavior Guidance Techniques
Note: Much of the information in this section was adapted, with permission,
from American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Council on
Clinical Affairs—Committee
on Behavior Guidance. In press. Guideline on behavior guidance
for the pediatric dental patient [revised 2006].http://www.aapd.org/media/policies_guidelines/g_behavguide.pdf.
Most children’s behavior can be effectively managed using basic behavior guidance techniques. These techniques should form the foundation for all oral health professionals’ behavior guidance strategies. However, managing some children’s
behavior requires more advanced techniques. Advanced behavior guidance
techniques include protective stabilization, deep sedation, and general
anesthesia.
An appropriate diagnosis of behavior, and safe and effective implementation of these behavior techniques, requires knowledge, skill, and experience generally beyond that which dental students receive during predoctoral dental education. Dentists considering using these advanced techniques should seek additional training through a residency program, a graduate program, and/or an extensive continuing education course that involves both didactic and experiential mentored training. Some techniques require special certification, which may vary by state.
When considering the use of these advanced techniques, dentists should consult with the child’s physician(s) about the appropriateness of the selected techniques and any adaptations needed or contraindications. Sending the physician a report of oral health care provided will help ensure that oral health care is referenced in the child’s health record as an integral aspect of overall health care and will alert the physician that the child has a dental home.
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