Influence of Sleep Disturbance on Behavior of Children during Dental Treatment: (clinical trial )

Abdelkadir, Mohamed Mahmoud; Mahmoud, Kareem Mohammad; Abd El-Aziem, Nahla Abd El-Aziz

doi:10.21608/mjmr.2025.404802.2035

Influence of Sleep Disturbance on Behavior of Children during Dental Treatment: (clinical trial )

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Neurology department, faculty of medicine, Minia university

² Pediatric and Community Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Minia University

³ B.D. S, 2017, Faculty of Dentistry, Nahda University in Benisuef .

10.21608/mjmr.2025.404802.2035

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the influence of sleep disturbances on children’s behavior during dental treatment, focusing on correlations between sleep quality and cooperative behavior.

Methods: This was an clinical trial study performed on a sample of 347 children (aged 4–8 years) undergoing their dental visit for pulpotomy under local anesthesia was evaluated. Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) , while behavior during treatment was assessed via the Frankl Behavior Rating Scale.

Results: Participants with negative Frankl scores (uncooperative behavior) , exhibited significantly higher PSQI scores , (median=5 , IQR=4–6) , compared to those with positive scores (median=2, IQR = 1–3). Females demonstrated more pronounced links between sleep disturbances and uncooperative behavior.

Conclusion: Sleep disturbances significantly correlate with negative behavior during dental treatment, particularly among female children. Addressing sleep quality may enhance behavior management strategies in pediatric dentistry, improving clinical outcomes and patient experiences.

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