Effect of educational films compared to conventional behavior control methods in pediatric dentistry on the attitude of dental students

To accomplish treatment successfully, dentists should use a variety of techniques to control the behavior of children. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of educational films and theoretical education of conventional behavior control methods on the attitudes of dental students toward behavior management techniques. In this experimental-interventional study, first, the operator explained every technique and the students filled out a questionnaire that included questions about behavior management techniques and demographic data. Then a videotape that explained and implemented the techniques was presented to them. Then the students filled out the questionnaire again. Theoretical education about behavior management techniques included four 2-hour meetings. After these meetings the students filled out the questionnaire again. Finally, means of scores for every technique were compared in the three intervals (before film, after film and after education). Data was analyzed with SPSS software and one-way ANOVA, and Tukey HSD (α = 0.05). The most acceptable technique in the three periods was tell-show-do and voice control. Watching the film did not result in any significant differences in any methods. The effect of education on voice control, passive restraint and general anesthesia techniques was significant and resulted in their acceptance. According to the results of this study, educational films prepared students to accept education. Theoretical education can increase acceptance of some techniques.