The Effects Of Breakfast On Behavior Of Pediatric Patients In Dental Operatory

Deepa Gurunathan, Professor Department of Pedodontics Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Saveetha University 162, Poonamallee High Road, Chennai 600077, India.
2021 International Journal of Dentistry and Oral Science  
Sandercock et al., stated that children who do not devour breakfast are more likely to be less physically active and have a lower cardio-respiratory fitness level [7] . Moreover, there is evidence that breakfast consumption positively influences learning in chil- Abstract Background: The greatest challenge faced by a pediatric dentist while treating a child in the dental operatory is the uncooperative behaviour. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of breakfast on behavior of
more » ... c patients in dental operatory. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 children aged between 4-10 years undergoing non invasive treatment. The children were divided in to two groups: did not skip breakfast (control group) and skipped breakfast (study group). Children's behavior was assessed using Frankl's behavior rating scale during the course of treatment (pretreatment, mid-treatment, and post-treatment). Descriptive statistics and independent t tests were performed for analysis. Results: A statistically significant difference was noted in the behavior score between the two groups of children during the course of treatment (P<0.05). The overall mean score of children in group I was 3.26 ± 0.2 and in group II was 2.1 ± 0.5. The reasons for skipping breakfast were insufficient time (52.5%), not being hungry (30%), or believing in the myth to have an empty stomach prior to dental appointment (17.5%). Conclusion: A possible relation exists between breakfast consumption and behavior changes in young children.
doi:10.19070/2377-8075-21000392 fatcat:xwkv4istdzbgtkhbby7rk2olsq