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Purpose: Oral health care is a leading unmet health care need of children with special health care needs (CSHCNs). The purposes of this study were to: (1) compare the responses of parents (parents, caregivers) of children with versus without special health care needs (SHCNs) concerning their child's functioning, oral health-related knowledge, attitudes, and behavior; and (2) assess which information parents received/wanted to receive from dentists. Methods: A total of 122 parents of CSHCNs and 115 parents of children without SHCNs responded to the surveys. Results: Parents of CSHCNs reported that their children had lower functioning (per a four-point scale, with zero indicating worst functioning; means without SHCNs/CSHCNs equal 1.98/2.70; P<0.001) and nonverbal interactions (2.24/2.77; P<0.001), flossed and used mouth rinse less frequently (per a fivepoint scale, with one indicating never: 2.23/2.70; P=0.002; 1.82/2.27; P=0.004) than parents of children without SHCNs. They reported more oral carerelated challenges (43.4 percent versus 21.7 percent; P<0.001), were less comfortable helping with oral care (per a five-point answer scale, with five indicating very comfortable: 3.92/4.48; P<0.001) and less interested in receiving information (3.13/3.71; P<0.001) than parents of children without SHCNs. Conclusions: Parents of children with or without special health care needs do not differ in their knowledge and attitudes. However, parents of CSHCNs are less comfortable in helping with oral care and less interested in receiving information than parents of children without SHCNs. Understanding the obstacles parents of CSHCNs face when providing oral care for their children can help dentists better support their oral healthrelated efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To survey pediatric dentists in the United States regarding adverse events during dental care for children. Methods: A selfadministered, anonymous online survey was sent to American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry members (n equals 6,327) using REDCap® software (between October and December 2019). The questionnaire (all items with radio-button numerical categories) included five items surveying pediatric adverse event occurrence and seven demographic items. Annualized occurrences of adverse events in US pediatric dental practices were extrapolated from the data collected. Results: The survey response was 11 percent (n equals 704), with 91 percent of respondents reporting that at least one child experienced an adverse event during dental treatment. The two most prevalent adverse events, each reported by 82 percent of respondents, were self-inflicted trauma to soft tissues after local anesthesia and nausea and vomiting, with annualized estimates of 7,816 and 7,003, respectively. Major adverse events (respiratory depression, cardiovascular depression, neurological damage, death) during pediatric dental treatment were reported by 14 percent of respondents (annualized estimate equals 443). "Wrong" errors (wrong tooth/wrong procedure/wrong patient) were reported by 24 percent of respondents (annualized estimate equals 600). Conclusions: Adverse events during pediatric dental care are of noticeable concern with some (wrong tooth/wrong procedure/wrong patient errors) that can be procedurally mitigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine: (1) which nonpharmacological behavior guidance techniques recommended in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s (AAPD) best practice statement are currently routinely used by pediatric dentists; and (2) their perception of parent/caregiver acceptance of the techniques. Methods: All active AAPD dentist members were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. Participants (n equals 518) completed an online questionnaire that queried the use of each nonpharmacological behavior guidance technique outlined in the AAPD best practice statement, the frequency with which parent/caregiver hesitancy/refusal is encountered for each, and practice characteristics and demographics. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and tests of group differences. Results: Nearly all participants endorsed routine use of the foundational techniques tell-show-do (98.6 percent), counseling skills to build rapport (97.7 percent), and positive reinforcement (95.6 percent). Fewer endorsed using more complex techniques like desensitization (75.3 percent), memory restructuring (22.6 percent), and cognitive behavioral therapy (4.4 percent). There were significant differences in mean years of clinical experience between those who used and did not use some of the more complex techniques. Of the 26 techniques queried, parent/caregiver hesitancy/refusal was encountered most frequently for parental absence, physical restraints, and voice control, and never to rarely for the others. Conclusions: This first-ever study of all nonpharmacological behavior guidance techniques outlined in the AAPD’s best practice statement suggests that pediatric dentists routinely use foundational techniques but less frequently use more resource-intensive or complex techniques. With few exceptions, these techniques are well accepted by parents/caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess factors associated with the dental utilization of refugee children in Washington state who received oral health care. Methods: This study used Medicaid data of newly arrived children who resettled in 2015. Demographics, refugee population density groups, special care needs, dates of dental encounters, and dental claim variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), regression analysis, and the Cox proportional-hazard ratios (P<0.05). Results: Among 1,125 children, 78 percent had at least one dental claim. The majority were under six years (37 percent), male (55 percent), and without disabilities (98 percent). On average children started using dental care within 6.0 months (±4.0 standard deviation) of resettlement (median equals 4.4; interquartile range [IQR] equals 2.6 to 10.3). White children had the greatest mean number of dental claims, whereas Black children had the least (P<0.001). Children from the low-volume refugee population density group were significantly less likely to have a dental claim than children from the medium-volume refugee population density group (P<0.001). Compared to 13- to 21-year-olds, children aged zero to seven years and seven to 13 years had a 46.7 percent (95 percent confidence interval [95% CI] equals 24.9 to 72.3 percent) and 54.8 percent (95% CI equals 30.3 to 83.9 percent) significantly increased likelihood of having their first dental claim (P<0.001). Conclusions: A large percentage (78 percent) of children newly resettled in the state of Washington utilized at least one dental service. Age, race, and refugee population density group were significantly associated with utilization within the initial 12 months after resettlement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to use fluoride-hesitant parents as a model to identify the factors that erode versus build trust in their child's dentists. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using a semi-structured interview guide with fluoride-hesitant parents recruited from two dental clinics and through snowball sampling. A content analysis was performed to identify factors that erode versus build parents' trust in their child's dentist. Results: Of the 56 parents interviewed, most were female (91.1 percent) and white (57.1 percent) and had a mean age of 41±9.7 (standard deviation) years. Factors identified included five that erode trust (having trust violated previously, sensing discrepancies, getting pushed to accept fluoride, feeling dismissed, and sensing bias) and four that build trust (being treated as an individual, having a dentist who communicates, feeling supported and respected, and having a choice). Conclusions: Dentists' understanding of the factors that erode and build trust with parents could help providers develop patient-centered communication strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author talks about caring for children of military service members. He discusses the prevalence of dental caries among the children of military service members relative to children in the civilian population, the eligibility of the dependents of service members to receive dental insurance through the voluntary TRICARE Dental Program (TDP), and the benefits offered by Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) to military families.

Purpose: The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to assess the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) 2019 Annual Session attendees' knowledge, recommendation behaviors, and education regarding human popillomovirus (HPV) and HPV immunization. Methods: Conference attendees were recruited to complete o paper survey assessing demographic characteristics, education resources, HPV recommendation behaviors, ond knowledge. Results: A total of 188 surveys were completed. The meon knowledge score was 7.711.6 (range equals zero to 10). Students/residents hod the highest knowledge score (8.2113; P=0.02). The statement, "Dentists should make HPV immunization recommendations," had strong agreement 0.810.9, range equals one to flve) compared to discussing patient immunization status (2.211.2). The most utilized information source was persond knowledge (47.9 percent), and the least utilized were American Dental Association statements (8.5 percent). Conclusions: Participants agree dentists should make human popillomovirus immunization recommendations, but they prefer not to discuss patient immunization status. Interventions are needed to increase HPV knowledge by improving the uptake of formal organization statements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A Current Dental Terminology (CDT) code, D1354, for silver diamine fluoride was made effective on January 1, 2016. The purpose of this study was to investigate the utilization of silver diamine fluroide (SDF) by pediatric dentists (PDs) and general dentists (GDs) in the United States. Methods: Data were obtained from a commercial dental insurance claims warehouse in the United States. Deidentified data for CDT code D1354 were collected from January 2016 to July 2019. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study's purpose was to examine the sociodemographic and clinical correlates of sleep-disordered breathing in children receiving care at health center dental clinics. Methods: Data were collected from the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire and the health records for two-to 18-year old children at health centers located in seven states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article lists employment opportunities for pediatric dentists as of July 2020 including positions available in the U.S. and Guam.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine national data for trends in pediatric patient visits to dentists and physicians that may inform future interprofessional practice. Methods: Data for 95,677 children, aged zero to 17 years, captured between 2011 and 2012 from the National Survey of Children's Health were examined to compare the number of visits made to dentists and physicians at each year of age. Results: The average age was 8.9±5.2 (standard deviation) years; 28.6 percent were receiving Medicaid. Comparisons showed that, while physician visits were more common than dentist visits at younger ages, children aged nine years and older had more dentist visits than physician visits per year (P<0.001). Stratified analyses showed similar patterns in the frequency of physician and dentist visits within boys (P<0.001), girls (P<0.001), English speakers (P<0.001), and non-English speakers (P<0.001). Conclusions: Physicians have an opportunity to address oral health in younger children, and dentists have an opportunity to address systemic health for older children. For five-year-olds and younger, physicians should incorporate oral health evaluations and dentist-referrals. For nine-year-olds and older, dentists should provide counseling on healthy weight, nutrition, and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination; monitoring for diabetes and asthma; and screening for smoking, vaping, and sleep apnea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Job openings in pediatric dentistry in the U.S. are listed.

Purpose: Presenteeism, or working while sick, results in loss of productivity and risk of spreading disease. The purpose of the present study was to identify current work practices and beliefs related to presenteeism, including demographic and practice factors that may significantly relate to presenteeism among practicing dentists in the United States. Methods: A survey of American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry members assessed dentists' practices and beliefs regarding presenteeism. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and multi-variate logistic regression. Results: Most respondents (86 percent) worked at least once while sick in the last year. Years in practice, region, and student debt level were significantly associated with presenteeism after adjusting for confounders. Reasons for presenteeism were related to practice type, gender, years in practice, region, and salary type. Conclusions: The majority of pediatric dentists treat patients while sick. Pediatric dentists are influenced to practice while sick due to perceived economic and social pressures, including meeting expectations of colleagues and patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing studies on adverse events (AEs) in pediatric dentistry have been limited in scope. The purpose of this study was to develop a comprehensive list of pediatric dental adverse events and assess their occurrences among pediatric dentists. This study developed the first inventory of pediatric dental adverse events. Methods: Over a three-month period, semistructured interviews were conducted with domain expert pediatric dentists to develop a comprehensive list of AEs occurring in pediatric dentistry. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) members were invited to complete a validated 15-item survey about their experience with pediatric dental AEs. Data analysis was performed to determine the percentage of pediatric dentists experiencing AEs. Results: A total of 193 pediatric dental AEs were identified through interviews and surveys; 1,042 AAPD members completed the survey (response rate equals 16.3 percent). The most common AEs experienced were post-treatment soft tissue trauma (86.1 percent), nicking/damaging of adjacent teeth (52.0 percent), and intraoperative soft tissue damage (47.1 percent). The least commonly experienced AEs were patients requiring CPR (0.5 percent) and patients aspirating materials (0.4 percent). Conclusions: A significant proportion of pediatric dentists experienced adverse events, and a small but poignant number indicated that their patients faced moderate to severe AEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author suggests the practice of pediatric dentistry for better access to care for children. in poor and medically underserved populations. The author discusses the role of pediatric dentistry in addressing challenges to oral health care access and disparity and highlights the organizational advocacy and programming of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Among potential areas for improvement are diversification of pediatric dental workforce and rural pediatric oral care.

Purpose: The purposes of this study were to investigate prescribing patterns of antibiotics for the management of common pediatric oral infections, and to and identify the independent predictors of antibiotic preference across different groups of dental practitioners in Massachusetts, USA. Methods: A cross-sectional survey assessed antibiotic prescribing practices of general dentists, pediatric dentists, endodontists, and oral surgeons based on a series of clinical scenarios where antibiotic coverage may be warranted. Results: The appropriate therapeutic management of patients with facial cellulitis occurred across all clinical groups. Endodontists were least likely to prescribe antibiotics for patients with irreversible pulpitis, and those with palpal necrosis with associated paruiis. Seventy-four percent of respondents prescribed antibiotics for patients suffering from pericoronitis and trismus. Conclusion: With the exception of the management of facial cellulitis, adherence to published guidelines for the prescription of antibiotics is low. Specifically, antibiotics are being prescribed too often for patients with tooth pain or localized abscesses and infreguently when the systemic spread of infection is less obvious, such as with trismus but no fever. Universally promulgated guidelines formulated by professional bodies may lead to improved adherence and a reduction in negative outcomes resulting from the overprescription of antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's (AAPD's) recommendation for sedation and general anesthesia for dental practitioners in treating child patients. Topics, including the cooperation between dentists and anesthesiologists, patient monitoring and minimizing risk that the patient faces, are discussed.

Purpose: The purpose of this survey-based study was to target U.S. pediatric dentists in the Midwest region to determine their knowledge, perceptions, and clinical management strategies of molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH). Methods: After obtaining appropriate author¬izations, all pediatric dentists identified by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's 2016 to 2017 membership directory in the 12 Midwest states were invited to take part in the study. The questionnaire, adopted from previous studies, incorporated information of the participants' demographics and educational/clinical backgrounds and MIH-focused questions. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for analysis. An alpha level less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 251 out of 975 surveys were completed (26 percent). Nearly all participants were familiar with MIH. The majority reported the MIH prevalence to be less than 10 percent in their clinical practice (62 percent). Most respondents were either very confident (65 percent) or confident (34 percent) when diagnosing teeth with MIH. The most cited clinical challenge in managing MIH teeth was "long-term success of restorations" (79 percent). When analyzed individually, responses dif¬fered significantly for different demographics and educational characteristics of the respondents (P<0.05). Conclusion: MIH is generally well acknowledged by U.S. Midwest pediatric dentists, with differences related to their perceptions of the condition's prevalence as well as clinical and restorative management challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Pediatric oral health benefits were designated as one of 10 Essential Health Benefits (EHB) in the Affordable Care Act. Although it provided coverage for many children, several issues prevent its success. The purpose of this study was to document experience with, attitudes toward, and perceptions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) among pediatric dentists. Methods: The study was conducted using a survey consisting of nine multiple choice questions and one open-ended item and was distributed electronically in November 2015 to active and life members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Results: Respondents reported patients deferring treatment due to high out-of-pocket costs. Providers perceive that patients do not have enough information to understand their benefits. Providers reported not having enough information to understand how these benefits affect their practices. Conclusions: Pediatric dentists report deferral of both preventive and restorative care due to high out-of-pocket costs. Pediatric dentists do not feel they have adequate information regarding the Affordable Care Act and its effect on their practices. The majority of pediatric dentists believe that parents have difficulty understanding their children's benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purposes of this study were to collect information on involvement, training, and barriers to participation in advocacy efforts for Public Policy Advocates (PPAs) of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and make recommendations to the AAPD. Methods: Preliminary data were collected from the PPAs during structured AAPD program meetings, conference calls, and individual interviews. Based on these data, a survey was created, piloted, and sent electronically to all PPAs. Data were analyzed and collated by frequencies. Results: Responses from 38 PPAs (100 percent) revealed they were involved with state legislatures and state chapters of the AAPD and American Dental Association. Eighty-two percent of the PPAs requested additional public policy training and clearer communication channels within the network. PPAs are funding their own advocacy efforts, and the time and resources spent away from patient care is a financial barrier. Conclusions: The Public Policy Advocate network holds a broad policy skill set and voluntarily commits time and resource to advocate for the support of the pediatric dental patient at state and federal government levels. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry can strengthen the PPA's self-directed leadership role at state and federal levels through formalized training, restructuring of the network, and increased resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to survey the membership of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and determine the current status of nitrous oxide (N2O) utilization in their dental practices while also comparing the findings to a similar survey completed 20 years ago. Methods: A 55-item questionnaire on the use of N2O was sent to the AAPD membership. Results: The total number of respondents was 1,632 (26 percent). Sixty-two percent are board-certified, 97 percent use N2O in their office, 18 percent indicated greater than 80 percent of their patient pool required N2O versus six percent in 1996. Fifty percent of parents expressed concerns about N2O use. Conclusions: Changes have occurred in the use of nitrous oxide since 1996, including: (1) a greater percentage of practitioners using N2O; (2) perceptions that more pediatric patients need N2O: (3) a shift in use of N2O by duration of practitioner experience; (4) an increased percentage of board-certified respondents: and (5) possible increasing parental concerns about N2O. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the availability of general dentists who treat very young children with private insurance in the context of recommendations for age one dental visit.Methods: Administrative data from Delta Dental of Iowa were analyzed to identify general dentists providing care to children younger than 18 years old in 2005 and 2012. Characteristics of dentists providing care to children younger than two years old were compared, examining changes over time. Geographical distribution of dentists who treated children younger than two years old was examined.Results: The proportion of dentists treating children younger than two years old increased from six percent in 2005 to 18 percent in 2012. Younger dentists, females, graduates of The University of Iowa College of Dentistry, and those in metropolitan locations were significantly more likely to treat children younger than two years old. Fifty-one of 99 counties lacked any dentists who had provided care to privately insured children younger than two years old.Conclusions: The proportion of dentists in Iowa treating privately insured children younger than two years old has increased since 2005. However, relatively few general dentists provided care to very young children when compared to previous survey-based figures. Geographic distribution of providers supports the hypothesis that provider availability may pose a barrier to early dental visits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine state-based and regional ratios of U.S. pediatric dentists to children in 2010 and determine changes since 2000.Methods: State-based enumeration of pediatric dentists in private practice (PDP) was determined from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's 2010 Membership Directory. Number of children in each state was obtained from U.S. Census 2010 data. PDP ratio for each state was computed per 100,000 children. Changes in state-based PDP number and ratio to children were compared with 2000 data.Results: There were 4,453 pediatric dentists in private practice across the United States, with a ratio of 6.00 per 100,000 children. California (583), Texas (378), New York (310), and Florida (231) had the largest PDP numbers. The Southern region (1,609) had the largest PDP number, while the Midwest (706) had the lowest number. PDP ratio to children was highest in the Northeast (7.61) and lowest in the Midwest (4.38). With the exceptions of Alaska, Vermont, and Wyoming, the PDP number and its ratio to children increased in all states between 2000 and 2010.Conclusions: Despite a generalized increase in practitioner number since 2000, noticeable differences persisted in 2010 among states in their pediatric dentist to children ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's policy on workforce issues and the delivery of dental care in the dental home is presented, which emphasizes the importance of fully trained dentists rather than allied dental personnel directing children's oral health care, including for underserved children.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand dental care transitions for adolescents with special health care needs (ASHCNs) from the dentist perspective.Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 13 dentists (seven pediatric dentists and six general dentists) to learn about the dental transition process for ASHCNs.Results: Most dentists believed transitions from child-centered to adult-centered dental care were important for ASHCNs. Dentists reported two main barriers to transitions: (1) low dental reimbursements by Medicaid; and (2) a shortage of general dentists qualified or willing to treat ASHCNs. Pediatric and general dentists reported playing complimentary roles in facilitating transitions for ASHCNs and their families.Conclusions: Dentists acknowledged the challenges that adolescents with special health care needs and their families face in transitioning to adult-centered care and believed in the importance of ASHCNs maintaining a dental home. Pediatric dentists and general dentists play a key role in working together to implement dental transition plans for ASHCNs and to ensure successful dental transitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand transitions from pediatric dental care to adult dental care for adolescents with special health care needs (ASHCNs) from parental and adolescent perspectives.Methods: Focus groups and interviews were conducted with 59 parents and 13 adolescent-parent dyads to identify factors associated with transitions to adult-centered dental care for ASHCNs.Results: Most parents believed ASHCNs were at risk for caries, but ASHCNs were not concerned about tooth decay. Parents of adolescents with complex SHCN believed it would be acceptable to continue seeing a pediatric dentist. Parents of Medicaid-enrolled ASHCNs reported lower efficacy in transitioning. ASHCNs desired personalized, adolescent-centered care and were motivated to transition when they felt out of place at the pediatric dentist office. Parents believed pediatric dentists play an important role in initiating and facilitating transitions.Conclusions: Pediatric dentists are well positioned to implement family and adolescent-centered policies to ensure dental transitions for adolescents with special health care needs and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the policy of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) on third party payor audits, abuse and fraud. Topics covered include the process for both internal and external audits of dentists used by third party payors as a mechanism to recoup overpayments, educational resources and programs on chart documenting, coding, and billing that support best practices, and the policy statement of the AAPD encouraging the support of efforts to eliminate Medicaid abuse.

The article discusses the policy of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) on the prevention of sports-related orofacial injuries. Topics covered include the susceptibility of children in sports-related oral injury, ways of preventing sports-related traumatic injuries, such as the use of helmets, and the role of dentists in the prevention of orofacial injuries associated with sporting and recreational activities.

The article presents dental practice sales and job advertisements in the dental field in the U.S. including a pediatric dentist in a dental practice in Phoenix, Arizona, a Chief Dental Officer in Sacramento, California, and a part-time pediatric dental associate in Bradenton, Florida.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the willingness of pediatric dentists to participate in practice-based research networks (PBRNs) and the factors associated with their willingness. Methods: A 29-item cross-sectional survey was collected from pediatric dentists in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Montana. Logistic regression models were used to test for demographic and educational factors associated with a willingness to participate in PBRNs. Results: Of 337 surveys mailed or emailed, 171 (51 percent) were returned. Seventy-four (43 percent) pediatric dentists expressed a willingness to participate in PBRNs. Younger age (P=.01), greater number of regularly read scientific journals (P=.04), freguent utilization of scientific web searches (P=.05), national dental meetings for practice guidance (P=.001), lack of concern about time to participate (P=.01), and quality of data obtained in PBRN studies (P=.03) were associated with increased willingness to participate. Caries prevention was the most important topic in which to conduct more research. Conclusions: There is a broad base of pediatric dentists willing to participate in dental practice-based research networks. Younger age and greater utilization of certain practice guidance resources were associated with increased willingness to participate. Practitioner demand for additional research is in the area of caries prevention [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a guideline for administration of sedation/ general anesthesia to pediatric dental patients by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). It includes topics like verification of credentials of anesthesia personnel, effective communication between the anesthesiologist and the dentist, and need for well-equipped clinics. Also mentioned is the need of documentation before the delivery of general anesthesia and quality assurance by minimizing risk to patients.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine pediatric dentists' awareness and experiences with oral health literacy and to identify communication techniques used with parents. Methods: Active North American members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry were invited to participate in the survey. Descriptive statistical analyses were completed, and Pearson's chi-square crosstabs tests were used to compare categorical data between groups. Results: Data were collected from 22 percent (n=1,059) of pediatric dentists; 68 to 87 percent use basic communication techniques routinely, while 36 to 79 percent routinely use enhanced communication techniques. Approximately 59 percent (n=620) reported having had an experience with health literacy miscommunication, while II percent (n=116) are aware of an error in patient care that resulted from oral health literacy miscommunication. Respondents who have had an experience with miscommunication were significantly more likely statistically to perceive barriers to effective communication as more significant than those without a history of miscommunication experience (P<.001). Conclusions: Most pediatric dentists have experienced situations in which a parent has misunderstood information. Basic communication techniques were most commonly used, while enhanced communication techniques were used less routinely. Those who have had experience with oral health literacy miscommunication events perceive barriers to effective communication as more significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to document current practices among pediatric and general dentists who are members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) regarding the use of local anesthesia (LA) on children undergoing dental rehabilitation under general anesthesia (GA). Methods: A survey was administered via e-mail to AAPD members to document the use of LA during dental rehabilitations under GA and the rationales for its use. Results: A total of 952 of 5,599 members responded to this survey; 79 percent of respondents use LA at least part of the time during dental rehabilitations under GA. "Improved patient recovery" was the most commonly cited rationale for administering LA. Extraction of permanent and primary teeth were the two most common procedures cited for the use of LA, respectively. Conclusion: There is no consensus among the respondents on the use of local anesthesia during dental rehabilitation under general anesthesia, but the majority responded that it does play a role in their perioperative patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine pediatric dentists' level of job satisfaction and to explore which factors (demographic and practice/work/patient characteristics) are related to their satisfaction. Methods: Data were collected with mailed surveys from 385 and with web-based surveys from 966 pediatric dentists in the United States. Professional satisfaction was measured with the Professional Satisfaction Scale and the Dentists' Satisfaction Scale. Results: Most respondents would choose dentistry (89 percent) and pediatric dentistry (92 percent) again and would recommend dentistry (85 percent) and pediatric dentistry (83 percent) to their child as a career. Male respondents were more satisfied with income, personal and professional time, staff, and practice management aspects, and female respondents were more satisfied with patient relations. The older the dentists were, the more satisfied they were. Respondents in academia were less stressed and less satisfied with their income than respondents in nonacademic settings. The more time spent in the operatory and the less administrative work, the more satisfied the respondents were. The fewer patients from a lower socioeconomic background they treated, the more satisfied they were. Conclusions: Overall, pediatric dentists have a high level of job satisfaction. Demographic factors and practice/work/patient characteristic are related to job satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate dental anxiety among children and adolescents using self reported questionnaires. Methods: One hundred thirty 7- to 18-year-old patients (mean age=11.37±2.84) who attended a clinic were asked to complete the Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) and the Dental Fear Survey (DFS) in the waiting room. Results: Females demonstrated higher dental anxiety than males. Higher anxiety was observed among patients who had their last dental visit over a year prior to the current visit and among patients who expected operative procedures. Extraction was the most anxiety-producing item. While in the dental chair, teeth cleaning produced significantly more anxiety than restoration. A significant correlation existed between the DAS and the DFS. Conclusions: Pediatric dentists can expect high dental anxiety among: females; patients who wait long periods between visits: and patients expecting operative procedures. Teeth cleaning should not be considered an absolutely non-anxiety producing procedure for the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a metric for measuring (1) an individual pediatric dentists performance against peer performance and (2) aggregate group performance, using accuracy of caries diagnosis. Methods: A total of 3,985 tooth surfaces (from 174 patients) on intraoral bitewing radiographs were assessed by 9 precalibrated attending pediatric dentists at Children's Hospital Boston over a 3-year period. Each surface was reviewed by 3 pediatric dentists (the operating dentist and 2 peer reviewers) using a score card. An accurate diagnosis was defined as agreement between the operating dentist and at least 1 peer reviewer as to the presence or absence of caries. Results: Average percentage diagnostic accuracy within the group over the course of the project was approximately 95% (95% confidence interval=94.0-95.4). Individual dentist scores ranged from approximately 89% to 96%. Group average rose steadily over time, from approximately 93% in 2008 to 97% by 2010. Unacceptable diagnosis (~5% of surfaces assessed) did not directly translate into unfavorable treatment (~4% of surfaces with unacceptable diagnosis). Conclusions: Interexaminer reliability as a proxy for accuracy of caries diagnoses from bitewing radiographs is a viable metric for improving and assessing the quality of care provided by pediatric dentists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article lists job postings for pediatric dentists and clinical instructors in the U.S. and Canada.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of general dentists on access to care for children in Kentucky by assessing the extent to which they provide care For children. Methods: A 41-question survey was mailed to all 1,774 general dentists practicing in Kentucky. It had 6 sections: (1) demographic data; (2) dental school education; (3) knowledge of national guidelines for the age 1 visit; (4) treatment of children; (5) clinical practices and desirability of additional education; and (6) participation in public insurance. Results: The response rate was 33%, with a final sample size of 486. Ninety-four percent of respondents reported treating children younger than 11-years-old; however, 74% of children treated were between the ages of 7 and 14, with only 11% being younger than 3 years old. Children 3-years-old and younger and those on public insurance were represented in low numbers. Conclusions: While most general dentists reported treating children, few provided care for children 3-years-old or younger. Also, general dentists did not treat children with extensive numbers of carious lesions, and rarely performed pediatric restorative procedures such as pulpotomies and stainless steel crowns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In addition to sounds from dental equipment, pediatric dentists are exposed to noise produced by precooperative and/or noncooperative children. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the doily personal noise exposure of a pediatric dentistry resident while treating children in a teaching clinic to determine both comprehensive noise doses and peak noise occurrences as well as to assess the risk for noise-induced hearing loss. Methods: A noise dosimeter (Noise-Pro DLX) was used to measure the total personal noise exposure dose using the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hearing Conservation Amendment criteria and the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) occupational noise exposure revised criteria. Comprehensive noise doses for 31 days were obtained for a single resident. Results: OSHA and NIOSH-allowable limits were not exceeded during any one day in the study period. Noise levels during crying episodes, however, were higher than the reported noise levels of dental instruments and reached maximum levels of 112.9 dBA. Conclusions: Noise levels to which the pediatric dental resident was exposed fell below the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's damage-risk thresholds for noise-induced hearingloss. (Pediatr Dent 2011;33:343-8) Received January 17, 2010 | Last Revision July 20, 2010 | Accepted August 9,2010 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the personality types of pediatric dentists and associated variables. Methods: A survey containing the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and demographic and practice questions was mailed to 500 pediatric dentists. Results: The responding 214 pediatric dentists preferred sensing over intuition, feeling over thinking and judging over perceiving. The distribution of the pediatric dentists' 16 personality types differed significantly from other dental specialists, general dentists, and pediatricians as well as the general population. Pediatric dentists were significantly more likely to prefer: sensing when compared to pediatricians; feeling when compared to dental specialists, general dentists, and pediatricians; and judging when compared to pediatricians and the general population. Pediatric dentists who preferred sensing were more likely to spend a greater portion of their time in clinical care than those who preferred intuition. Ninety-seven percent of those responding were very satisfied or satisfied with their profession. Those who were very satisfied were more likely to prefer extroversion, be over 46-years-old, and practice in a non-solo setting. Conclusions: The personalities of pediatric dentists differ from other dentists and pediatricians as well as the general population and are associated with some demographic and practice factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the perspectives of board certified pediatric dentists regarding adding a pediatric oral health therapist/dental therapist to the dental team. Methods: A 27-item online survey was e-mailed to all diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Questions assessed knowledge and opinions regarding the concept of a pediatric oral health therapist, as well as perspectives on the parameters under which such a person could practice. Survey results were tabulated and frequency distributions calculated. Results: Seventy-five percent of respondents had limited or no knowledge regarding the concept of a pediatric oral health therapist; 79% had limited or no knowledge regarding the use of dental therapists in Alaska. Seventy-one percent disagreed with adding a therapist to the dental team. Pediatric dentists practicing in the public sector were more knowledgeable and supportive. Sixty-six percent indicated they treated children with Medicaid/CHIP insurance. Of those, most disagreed that therapists would enable them to care for more children. Conclusions: Pediatric dentists are generally not knowledgeable regarding the role of therapists internationally. Nevertheless, the majority oppose adding such an individual to the dental team in the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry concerning the use of behavior guidance methods with child patients or individuals with special health care requirements. It states that safe and effective treatment of dental diseases often requires dentists to modify a child patient's behavior. It mentions that the behavior modification is meant to lessen fear and anxiety in the child patient while promoting an understanding for proper oral health and the methods this is achieved. It talks about various methods used in behavior guidance, including the behavior of the dentist and dental personnel, communication between dentists and patients, informed consent, and patient assessment.

The article presents guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry concerning the dental aspects of child abuse and sexual abuse and the dentist's role in evaluating these conditions. It states that in over half of the cases of child abuse, craniofacial, head, face, and neck injuries occur and that a careful and thorough perioral and intraoral examination is required in all cases of suspected neglect or abuse. It talks about the use of the oral cavity in sexual abuse of children but that physical oral injuries are rare. It comments on dental neglect which can result in periodontal diseases, dental caries, and other oral conditions.

The article focuses on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's (AAPD) examination of mid-level providers in dental care for children. Examples of mid-level providers include dental therapists, advanced dental hygienists and community dental health coordinators. Policy recommendations from the AAPD for mid-level dental providers include the use of Expanded Function Dental Auxiliaries (EFDAs), further evaluation of Dental Therapists and Community Dental Health Coordinator (CDHC) models, and rejection of the Advanced Dental Hygiene Practitioner (ADHP) model.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine pediatric dentists' current practices and the perceptions about parents' opinions and how those parental preferences regarding dental materials influence dentists' practices. Methods: A questionnaire was sent to 500 randomly selected active members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Twenty-five items queried demographics, use of restorative materials, perceptions of parents' attitudes towards materials, and dentists' reactions to parents' concerns. Results: The survey response rate was 61%. Parental concerns about materials in decreasing order were: (1) esthetics; (2) cost; (3) toxicity; and (4) durability. Parents' greatest concerns about stainless steel crowns were: (1) esthetics; and (2) cost. Among respondents, 43% followed parental preferences when challenged, and 28% currently never use amalgam. Amalgam use and the dentists' perception of parental challenge were each related to the socioeconomic status of the practice population, with lower socioeconomic practices feeling less parental challenge than higher socioeconomic practices and being more likely to use amalgam than "white" filling materials (P=.001). Conclusions: Mercury concerns occur more frequently with higher than lower socioeconomic status parents (P=.002). Stainless steel crowns are challenged based on esthetics and cost. When confronted, many pediatric dentists (43%) follow parental preferences, even when that action is contrary to their initial clinical judgment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the percentage of general and pediatric dentists in Connecticut that were aware at and practice, the current AAPD guidelines far the age one dental visit and to determine the services they provide to 0-2-yr-old patients. Methods:A survey was mailed to Connecticut general and pediatric dentists seeking information on practice type, years in practice, training, ages of children seen, procedures performed and opinions regarding the age one dental visit. Results: The response rate was 42% for general dentists and 84% for pediatric dentists, giving a sample of 113 and 60 dentists, respectively. All responding pediatric dentists reported seeing 0-2-yr-olds as compared to 42% of general dentists. Although not statistically significant, general dentists who were female or in practice less than 10 years were more likely to see 0-2-yr-olds. The majority of pediatric dentists reported performing all procedures surveyed, however, only just aver half of general dentists provided topical fluoride or restorative care. Among pediatric dentists, 98% were aware of the AAPD guidelines and 92% agreed with them compared to 41% and 45% of general dentists respectively. Conclusions: Nearly all Connecticut pediatric dentists are caring far 0-2-yr-olds compared to 42% of Connecticut general dentists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the level of agreement between pediatric dentists and endodontists at a pulp therapy symposium conjointly sponsored by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) on November 2-3, 2007. Presymposium and postsymposium tests were administered, and respondent answers were compared between pediatric dentists and endodontists. Opinions on 3 areas were sought: pulp therapy for cariously involved primary teeth; indirect pulp treatment (IPT) for cariously involved immature permanent teeth; and innovative treatment options including pulpal revascularization and regeneration. Results were analyzed with χ² tests. Comparisons of presymposium and postsymposium responses and between the 2 groups of attendees indicated that the pediatric dentistry and endodontic communities agree that formocresol will be replaced as a primary tooth pulpotomy agent, that mineral trioxide is the first choice to take its place, that IPT in primary teeth holds hope as a replacement for pulpotamy, and that IPT is an acceptable pulp therapy technique for cariously involved young permanent teeth. Both groups believe that pulp revascularization and regeneration will be viable treatment modalities in the future. The AAE and the AAPD are positioned to begin preparation of best practice guidelines that share common language and treatment recommendations for pulp therapies performed by bath specialties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on the utilization of periodontal therapy in treating pediatric dental patients with periodontal diseases. It states that periodontics plays significant role in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental diseases through the conduct of periodontal examination. It reveals that consent from patients needs to be sought by dentists before performing dental treatment.

The article presents the guideline which focuses on how dental health care providers will manage the behavior of pediatric dental patients provided by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (APPD). It states that the guideline provides various behavior guidance practices that will assist dentists and parents towards the effective delivery of dental care to patients. Such techniques include patient assessment, enhanced communicative behavior by dentists to patients.

The article presents the guideline which focuses on the appropriate use of local anesthesia by oral health care providers for treating pediatric dental patients. It provides discussion on the various kinds of anesthesia utilized by dental care providers which help prevent the development of pain among oral patients. In addition, the complications which may develop including allergies and nervous systems problems brought by anesthesia overdose were also discussed.