Citation Information :
Babu A, AR SE, Srinivasan D, Valli LM. A Comparative Study of the CARD™ System and Tell-show-do Technique in the Behavior Management of 6–10-year-old Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2025; 18 (1):53-57.
Background: Dental fear and anxiety are common issues affecting pediatric dental care, leading to challenges in treatment delivery and patient compliance. Nonpharmacological techniques such as the tell-show-do (TSD) method and CARD™ system have emerged as effective strategies for managing child dental anxiety.
Aim: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of the CARD™ system and TSD technique in managing the behavior of 6–10-year-old children during dental procedures.
Methods: Forty children requiring invasive dental treatments were randomly assigned to either the TSD technique (group 1, n = 20) or CARD™ system (group 2, n = 20) groups. Physiological parameters (oxygen saturation and pulse rate) and behavioral responses (evaluated using the Facial Image Scale) were assessed before and after procedures. Data were analyzed using t-tests and Mann–Whitney U tests as appropriate.
Results: No statistically significant differences were found between the techniques regarding physiological parameters or behavioral responses. Both groups exhibited comparable oxygen saturation levels (CARD™: 98.00 ± 1.02; TSD: 98.00 ± 1.12) and pulse rates (CARD™: 87.45 ± 7.28 bpm; TSD: 90.30 ± 10.26 bpm) before procedures, with minimal changes observed postprocedure. Similarly, there were no significant differences in emotional responses assessed by the Facial Image Scale before (CARD™: 1.90 ± 0.85; TSD: 1.80 ± 0.76) or after procedures (CARD™: 2.80 ± 1.60; TSD: 2.95 ± 1.50).
Conclusion: This study suggests that the CARD™ system and TSD technique are equally effective in managing child dental anxiety. Both methods offer viable options for reducing anxiety and enhancing cooperation during dental procedures.
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