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← Paediatric & Preventive Dentistry / 4th Year / BDS

OBSERVE / REASON / EXPLAIN

Child-centred communication

Explain a supportive introduction to a child’s dental visit.

Original teaching scenario / OSCE

Your practical station

A child is anxious about their first examination. Explain how you would introduce the mirror and check readiness respectfully.

Recognise and interpret

Communication should be age-appropriate, respectful and responsive to the child and caregiver.

1

Engage

Introduce the visit and ask about preferences and concerns.

2

Explain

Use understandable language and demonstrate appropriate items before examination.

3

Adapt

Reassess comfort and seek the supervising team’s guidance.

At the viva table

Try answering aloud, then open the suggested answer. Examiner questions vary.

01 / Should the same explanation be used for every age?

No. Adapt to development and understanding.

02 / Why involve a caregiver appropriately?

They provide context and support while the child is included in communication.

03 / Does cooperation remove the need for consent?

No. Follow applicable consent and assent requirements.

04 / Should distress be ignored to finish quickly?

No. Reassess and use an appropriate supervised approach.

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