From Fear to Cheer: General Anaesthesia and Parental Support for Dental Treatment in a 14-Year-Old Patient with Global Developmental Delay
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35790/eg.v14i2.67249Keywords:
general anaesthesia; parental support; global developmental delay; dental treatment; multidisciplinary approachAbstract
Abstract: Adolescents with global developmental delay (GDD) face significant barriers to dental care due to behavioral challenges and sensitivity to clinical environments, often necessitating general anesthesia (GA) for effective treatment. This case report presents a multidisciplinary approach that integrates GA and active parental involvement in the management of a 14-year-old girl with GDD, who exhibited extensive dental caries and generalized gingivitis. With an IQ of 25 and a negative Frankl behavior rating indicating limited cooperation, in-office procedures were deemed unfeasible. The dental team devised a comprehensive GA treatment plan while counseling her parents on behavior management strategies to facilitate care at home. To alleviate anxiety during radiographic and laboratory procedures, the parents employed children’s literature as a comforting distraction. The patient underwent various dental treatments under GA, including scaling, fillings, sealants, and extractions, supported by preoperative desensitization from her parents. Follow-up assessments one week and 30 days post-surgery revealed improvements in her nutrition and tooth-brushing habits,
with minimal plaque observed. In conclusion, this case underscores the importance of parental empowerment and a family-centered approach in enhancing dental treatment outcomes, reducing anxiety, and promoting better long-term oral health for adolescents with developmental delays.
Keywords: general anaesthesia; parental support; global developmental delay; dental treatment; multidisciplinary approach
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