Dental behavior management for a 7-years-old patient with hearing impairment: A case report

Introduction: Hearing is one of the most important components in communication since hearing and speaking are the key for people in socializing. Patients with hearing impairment still need to visit dentist. Difficulties in communication will lead to difficulties in dental treatment. Case History: Explaining about dental behaviour management in 7-years-old girl with hearing impairment. Class 2 filling on tooth #55 which begin with a whole mouth prevention of dental caries was done smoothly with a better cooperation level. Discussion: A non-verbal communication using lip reading, show-feel-do, modelling, and picture exchange communication system (PECS) was selected as behaviour management to describe treatment procedures. During dental treatment using handpiece, hearing aid was removed to avoid disturbing sound. The child's cooperative level was recorded before and after treatment. Conclusion: Lip reading, show-feel-do, modelling and PECS methods are proven to establish good communication in dental practice for patient with hearing impairment.