A Novel Behavior Management Technique for Children of Lesser God
Abstract: Background: Management of children with cleft lip and palate is comprehensive, integrated, and multidisciplinary, requiring a different outlook to address the exaggerated anxiety response during multiple appointments until final rehabilitation. Therefore, more sophisticated behavior management techniques are the need of the hour. This study evaluated the effect of a novel distraction technique in reducing dental anxiety through play therapy using thumb lights and fidget toys. Aim: To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of thumb light and fidget toy as distraction techniques in reducing dental anxiety, pain perception, and improving behavior among children with CLP. Methods: A total of 24 children with CLP aged (3-6 years) were divided into three groups: Fidget Toy, Thumb Light, and Control. Children with a Facial Anxiety Scale score ranging from mildly to extremely anxious were included in the study and assess anxiety, pain, and behavior, respectively, during oral prophylaxis, restorative procedures and local anesthesia administration. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc tests. Results: Facial anxiety and pain scores were significantly reduced in play therapy distraction groups compared to control, Cooperative behavior was highest with Fidget Toy, followed by Thumb Light, and lowest in the control group. Conclusion: Play therapy are effective, safe, and child-friendly distraction tools that significantly reduce dental anxiety and pain, and improve behavior in CLP children. Fidget toys demonstrated slightly higher efficacy. These techniques can be incorporated into routine pediatric dental practice for improved cooperation.
Keywords: cleft lip and palate, anxiety, distraction, thumb light, fidget toy, anxiety scale, play therapy, cooperation, child friendly
How to Cite?: Dr. Savitha Sathyaprasad, Dr. Akshata Gangur, "A Novel Behavior Management Technique for Children of Lesser God", Volume 15 Issue 1, January 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1108-1112, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26118150827, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26118150827