Tell-Show-Do: Effective Behavior Management for Children aged 5 to 9 years

Abstract

Dental fear affects 24–36% of children aged 5–9, complicating treatment and increasing risks of poor oral health outcomes. The Tell-Show-Do (TSD) technique, a non-pharmacological behavior management strategy, aims to reduce anxiety and enhance cooperation in pediatric dentistry. Aim: This study evaluated TSD's effectiveness in a private dental clinic in Sofia, Bulgaria, from February to April 2025. It involved 60 children (30 boys, 30 girls) aged 5–9 with dental fear and no prior dental experience who required restorations for carious primary molars. Material and methods: The TSD group (n=30) received structured explanations, demonstrations, and treatment, while the control group (n=30) received standard care. Outcomes were assessed using the Frankl Behavior Rating Scale for cooperation, the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale (MCDAS) for anxiety, and a 5-point Likert scale for parental satisfaction. Results: The TSD group showed significantly higher cooperation, greater anxiety reduction, and higher parental satisfaction. Conclusion: TSD's structured approach, supported by child-friendly environments, effectively mitigates dental fear, enhances cooperation, and improves satisfaction, reinforcing its value in private pediatric dental practice.