Evaluation of dentists' attitude and behavior regarding to dental treatments in children patients

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the attitudes and behaviors of dentists who do not specialize in pediatric dentistry working in Turkey towards dental treatments in children. Material and Method: 559 dentists participated in this descriptive study conducted throughout Turkey in 2021. An electronic questionnaire consisting of 2 parts and a total of 33 questions was applied to dentists. Results: 68.87% of the dentists participating in our study stated that they did not prefer to treat pediatric patients because it is more difficult and tiring to treat. Dentists participating in the study, respectively, the age groups of the pediatric patients they treated; 13-18 years (77.82%), 6-12 years (77.10%), 0-5 years (37.57%). 89.27% of the dentists participating in our study stated that they used the 'Tell-Show-Apply' behavior guidance technique when treating pediatric patients. Dentists participating in our study; 91.06% of them stated that they gave oral hygiene training, 90.16% gave nutritional advice, 70.48% applied fissure sealant, 57.6% applied fluoride. Dentists participating in our study; 63.33% stated that they performed amputation treatment on deciduous teeth, 60.64% performed root canal treatment on deciduous teeth, 59.57% applied placeholders, and 37.21% applied apexification treatment. 77.28% of the physicians who participated in our study reported that they wanted to learn more about dental treatments applied to pediatric patients and to receive training. Conclusion: In our country, it is important for dentists who have not specialized in pediatric dentistry to participate in dental treatments in pediatric patients. This rate may increase with the improvement of the conditions of public hospitals and training after graduation.