SOCIO-PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF DENTAL TREATMENT OF PRIORITY GROUPS OF POPULATION: CHILDREN AND ELDERLY

Abstract

Oral diseases are one of the most widespread chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among the population, having serious health and economic consequences. Based on certain criteria, particular priority groups of population, including children and elderly, could be distinguished. This paper was therefore aimed at discussing specifities in prevention and treatment approach towards children and older people as priority population groups, taking into consideration socio-psychological aspects of patient’s management. Findings of the current review suggested that working with children requires more attention, patience, and predisposition before and during treatment. Different stages of child’s development must be considered in order to apply appropriate methods to manage behavior (e.g., positive reinforcement, encouraging child, promising a toy, tell-show-do, audio/visual distractions, etc.)  and achieve a favorable outcome of the treatment. Additionally, dental practice involving work with older people has its own characteristics and requires an individual approach to each patient, free of age-based stereotypes and supported by improved communication skills. Considering older patient’s current physical, mental, and social condition is a key element of effectiveness and quality of dental care provided to this part of the population.