Magnification and behavior management in dentistry

Dr. Jarod Johnson discusses how to manage pediatric patients for the best use of magnification tools

Dentistry continues to progress with advancements that not only enhance precision but also improve practitioner longevity. Among these advancements are dental magnification tools such as Ergo™ loupes and dental microscopes. These advancements are widely accepted in the field of endodontics and general dentistry. One untapped area exists in the field of pediatric dentistry.

One of the most common types of feedback I get when talking to other dental practitioners about using a microscope with kids is, “They move too much.”  That simply is a myth that needs to be debunked. 90% of the kids at my office are treated under magnification using a dental microscope. With good behavior management techniques, kids sit still and can benefit from care delivered under a higher level of vision.

The role of dental magnification in precision

For today’s dental professionals, maintaining precision in diagnostic and procedural tasks is important. This is where dental magnification tools, such as dental loupes and surgical microscopes, come into play.

Benefits of dental magnification 

• Enhanced visualization and accuracy: Magnification sharpens focus on minute details, making it easier to detect the early stages of decay, cracks, or other minor issues that may be missed with the naked eye. It can also improve procedural outcomes.
• Improved ergonomics: Magnification devices promote better posture, reducing neck, back, and shoulder strain often associated with long clinical hours. This can provide for career longevity and support practitioner wellbeing.
• Boosted confidence with patients: Visualizing clinical details enhances both patient trust and confidence.

Behavior management in pediatric dentistry

Managing patient behavior, particularly in children, is one of the most complex and rewarding parts of modern dentistry. Combining behavioral science with empathetic care is crucial to ensuring procedures run smoothly for patients with varying cooperation levels.

Basic strategies for managing pediatric behavior 

1. Tell-Show-Do: This widely used method introduces children to each step of a procedure in a non-threatening way. For example, demonstrating on a finger how polishing tools feel before starting can alleviate anxiety. I often let children hold the dental handpiece without a bur and let it run prior to using it for treatment.
2. Positive reinforcement: Offering praise orrewards after cooperative behavior encourages trust and makes future visits smoother. I can always find one thing that a patient is doing well to compliment them on even in the most difficult situations.
3. Non-verbal communication: Maintaining a welcoming demeanor, smiling, and being approachable helps ease tension. When greeting a young patient, I will often sit on the foot of the dental chair (where an adult patient’s legs usually rest) with them to start engagement.
4. Distraction techniques: Tools like ceiling-mounted TVs or virtual reality experiences can distract young patients from their surroundings, minimizing stress. A huge plus is being able to be a great storyteller and develop a story on the spot based on the child’s interests.

Integrating behavior management with magnification

For dentists, combining behavior management with dental magnification creates a powerful synergy. Magnification helps dental practitioners refine their work, and with the right behavior management protocol, it ensures the child remains as comfortable as possible.

I once thought that “kids move too much.” But after implementing a dental microscope at my office last year, I learned that simply wasn’t true. With the right behavior management techniques, magnification and pediatric dentistry can work synergistically, improve outcomes for the patient, and provide career longevity through ergonomics.

This information was provided by Enova.