Correlates of Pediatric Behavior and Distress during Intramuscular Injections for Invasive Dental Procedures
Lindsey L. Cohen / Amber Fancher / Jill E. MacLaren / Crystal S. Lim

Relations between general behavior, temperament, and procedure-related behavior and distress were examined in children receiving intramuscular injections before undergoing restorative dental procedures. Younger children are likely to benefit the most from interventions prior to and during dental procedures. Children’s anxiety before dental procedures
could help identify those at risk of displaying problematic behaviors. General behavior and temperament seem useful at identifying children who may experience greater levels of pain.
Key words: temperament, procedure-related distress, dental procedures