ABPD Pediatric Dentistry cheat sheet

Primary teeth: first eruption ~6 months (mandibular central incisor); all 20 primary teeth by ~30 months.

Primary dentition formula: 2-1-2 per quadrant (central incisor, lateral incisor, first molar, second molar); the primary first molar is replaced by the first premolar.

Permanent first molar erupts at ~6 years; mixed dentition spans roughly 6-12 years.

Fluoride varnish 5% NaF (22,600 ppm) applied 2-4 times/year for caries risk; 2.26% NaF (5,000 ppm) is a higher-concentration alternative.

Amalgam and stainless steel crowns remain acceptable for primary molars; SSC is the restoration of choice for multi-surface primary molar caries.

Formocresol pulpotomy uses 1:5 dilution; ferric sulfate and MTA are non-formaldehyde alternatives for primary molar pulpotomy.

Space maintenance: band-and-loop or crown-and-loop for unilateral loss; Nance or transpalatal arch for bilateral maxillary loss; lingual arch for bilateral mandibular loss.

Eruption hematoma (eruption cyst) is a benign bluish swelling over an erupting tooth; observation is usually sufficient unless infected.

Early childhood caries (ECC) is defined as any caries in a child under 6 years, with maxillary incisors affected first due to prolonged bottle/breastfeeding.

Frankl scale: 1 (definitely negative), 2 (negative), 3 (positive), 4 (definitely positive); ratings 3-4 indicate cooperative behavior.

Tell-show-do: explain procedure in child-friendly language, demonstrate on a model or finger, then perform.

Positive reinforcement: specific praise and rewards contingent on desired behavior; avoid vague praise.

Distraction and voice control are non-pharmacologic techniques; voice control uses tone, volume, and pace modulation.

Parental presence/absence is decided case-by-case; parental presence is not universally required and may impede treatment.

Nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation: typical concentrations 30-50% N2O; contraindicated in upper respiratory obstruction and some pulmonary conditions.

Physical restraint requires documented informed consent and must be the least restrictive alternative; it is not a substitute for sedation when sedation is indicated.

Behavioral guidance for children with special health care needs includes desensitization, visual schedules, and short appointments.

Informed consent for behavior management must document the technique, rationale, risks, and alternatives.