EVALUATING THE LEVEL OF AWARENESS OF BEHAVIOUR MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES BY DENTAL SURGERY TECHNICIANS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF DENTAL PATIENTS. A CASE STUDY OF DENTAL SURGERY TECHNICIANS PRACTICING IN UGHELLI NORTH LGA OF DELTA STATE

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Abstract

Effective behavior management is essential in dental care, particularly in ensuring patient cooperation, reducing anxiety, and improving treatment outcomes. Dental surgery technicians (DSTs) play a pivotal role in implementing behavior management techniques, especially in communities where access to professional dental practitioners is limited. This study titled “Evaluating the Level of Awareness of Behavior Management Techniques by Dental Surgery Technicians in the Management of Dental Patients: A Case Study of Dental Surgery Technicians Practicing in Ughelli North LGA of Delta State” seeks to assess the knowledge, awareness, and application of various behavior management strategies among DSTs. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, and data were collected using structured questionnaires distributed to registered dental surgery technicians within Ughelli North. The study examined the understanding of verbal and non-verbal communication, tell-show-do techniques, positive reinforcement, distraction, and desensitization in patient care. Findings revealed that while a majority of technicians were aware of basic behavior management approaches, gaps existed in the consistent application of advanced psychological and behavioral strategies. Factors such as limited professional training, workload, and lack of continuing education were found to affect awareness and utilization. The study concludes that targeted training and periodic workshops are crucial to improving DSTs’ behavioral management skills, thereby enhancing patient cooperation and overall clinical outcomes.

Keywords: Behavior Management, Dental Surgery Technicians, Patient Care, Awareness, Dental Anxiety, Ughelli North, Delta State.

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Behavior management in dentistry refers to the systematic use of techniques designed to help patients accept dental care through communication, trust-building, and psychological support (Wright et al., 2014). It is a vital aspect of dental practice, especially when dealing with children, anxious adults, or patients with special needs. Effective behavior management not only enhances patient cooperation but also ensures the success of dental procedures and promotes long-term oral health care compliance (Klingberg & Broberg, 2017).

Dental surgery technicians (DSTs) play an essential role in the dental care team, assisting in various procedures, managing patients, and ensuring smooth clinical operations (Adekoya-Sofowora et al., 2019). However, their ability to manage patients effectively depends on their awareness and understanding of behavior management techniques. Techniques such as “Tell-Show-Do,” positive reinforcement, modeling, distraction, voice control, and desensitization are recognized as effective in reducing patient anxiety and facilitating cooperation (McDonald & Avery, 2018).

In Nigeria, and particularly in rural and semi-urban areas such as Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, dental surgery technicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients seeking oral health care. Consequently, their knowledge and application of behavior management techniques significantly influence patient experiences and treatment outcomes (Adeniyi et al., 2020). However, studies have shown that many dental auxiliaries may have limited exposure to formal behavioral management training, relying primarily on experience and observation (Osuide et al., 2022). This limitation could result in inconsistent patient care and reduced treatment effectiveness.

The increasing awareness of patient-centered care emphasizes the need for dental personnel, including DSTs, to possess both technical and behavioral competencies (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry [AAPD], 2021). Understanding patients’ behavioral responses, particularly in stressful dental environments, is crucial in minimizing fear, promoting trust, and improving oral health-seeking behavior (Armfield & Heaton, 2013). Therefore, assessing the awareness of DSTs regarding behavior management techniques provides valuable insights into their preparedness to handle the psychological dimensions of dental care.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the significant role of dental surgery technicians in patient management, there appears to be a gap between the required behavioral management skills and the actual knowledge and awareness among practitioners. Many DSTs are primarily trained in the technical aspects of dentistry, such as assisting in restorative or surgical procedures, with limited emphasis on behavioral sciences (Nwhator et al., 2020). As a result, patients—especially children and those with dental anxiety—may experience fear, discomfort, and poor cooperation during treatment.

In Ughelli North LGA of Delta State, anecdotal reports and preliminary observations suggest that some dental surgery technicians encounter difficulties managing uncooperative or anxious patients due to inadequate behavioral management training. This deficiency could contribute to incomplete treatments, increased patient dissatisfaction, and a negative perception of dental services (Eze & Okechukwu, 2021). There is, therefore, a need to evaluate the level of awareness and understanding of behavior management techniques among dental surgery technicians to identify existing gaps and recommend appropriate interventions.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The main aim of this study is to evaluate the level of awareness of behavior management techniques by dental surgery technicians in the management of dental patients in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State.

The specific objectives are to:

Assess the level of knowledge of dental surgery technicians about various behavior management techniques.

Determine the frequency of application of these techniques in daily clinical practice.

Identify factors influencing the awareness and utilization of behavior management techniques among DSTs.

Recommend strategies to enhance the training and practice of behavioral management among dental auxiliaries.

1.4 Research Questions

The study will be guided by the following research questions:

What is the level of knowledge of behavior management techniques among dental surgery technicians?

How frequently are these techniques applied in dental practice in Ughelli North?

What factors affect the awareness and application of behavior management techniques among DSTs?

What measures can improve behavioral management competencies among dental surgery technicians?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it will provide empirical evidence on the current level of awareness and practice of behavior management techniques among DSTs in Ughelli North, thereby contributing to dental education and policy development. Secondly, it will assist dental institutions and professional bodies in designing continuing education programs tailored to enhance behavioral competence among dental auxiliaries (Umanah et al., 2019). Thirdly, by improving behavior management awareness, dental professionals can foster more positive patient experiences, reduce anxiety, and promote oral health-seeking behaviors, ultimately contributing to improved public oral health outcomes (Afolabi et al., 2022).

1.6 Scope of the Study

This study focuses on dental surgery technicians practicing within Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State. It assesses their knowledge, awareness, and application of behavior management techniques in patient care. Other dental personnel, such as dentists or hygienists, are excluded to ensure specificity to DSTs. The study also limits its scope to behavioral aspects rather than clinical outcomes.

1.7 Limitations of the Study

Potential limitations include limited sample size due to availability of practicing DSTs in the area, self-reported data that may introduce bias, and possible reluctance of respondents to disclose inadequate knowledge. Nonetheless, the study seeks to minimize these through careful questionnaire design and anonymity assurances.

1.8 Definition of Terms

Behavior Management: The use of communicative and psychological strategies to promote patient cooperation during dental treatment (AAPD, 2021).

Dental Surgery Technician (DST): A trained dental auxiliary responsible for assisting in clinical procedures, patient preparation, and oral health education.

Awareness: The level of understanding and recognition of specific behavioral management methods and their relevance in dental care.

Dental Anxiety: Fear or apprehension related to dental procedures that may hinder patient cooperation (Humphris et al., 2013).

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