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GA Referral for Uncooperative Child — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePaediatric DentistryGA Referral for Uncooperative ChildNDEB AFK

A 4-year-old child is extremely uncooperative despite all behaviour management attempts. The child requires multiple restorations and a pulpotomy. Which management approach is most appropriate?

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Correct answer: D — Referral for treatment under general anaesthesia

When a young child requires extensive dental treatment and is truly uncooperative despite appropriate non-pharmacological and pharmacological behaviour management attempts, referral for treatment under general anaesthesia (GA) is the most appropriate approach. GA allows comprehensive, definitive treatment in a single session with no trauma to the child from repeated unsuccessful appointments. Indications include: very young age (under 3-4), extensive treatment needs, profound anxiety/phobia unresponsive to other approaches, medical/behavioural conditions preventing cooperation, and failed sedation attempts.

Reference: Dean – McDonald and Avery's Dentistry for the Child and Adolescent, 11th ed., 2021