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426 - Pediatric Dental Resident Preferences for Parental Presence

Saturday, May 23, 2026
3:15 PM - 3:30 PM PST
Has Audio

    Presenting Author(s)

  • BB

    Beth Belcastro, DDS

    House Officer II
    University of Nebraska Medical Center
    University of Nebraska Medical Center
    Bellevue, Nebraska, United States

    • Co-Author(s)

  • AB

    Alexandra L. Bilunas, DDS

    Program Director
    UNMC College of Dentistry
    University of Nebraska Medical Center
    Omaha, Nebraska, United States

    • Program Director(s)

  • AB

    Alexandra L. Bilunas, DDS

    Program Director
    UNMC College of Dentistry
    University of Nebraska Medical Center
    Omaha, Nebraska, United States

Abstract:
Pediatric Dental Resident Preferences for Parental Presence

Belcastro B, Bilunas A

University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, Omaha, NE





Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to evaluate pediatric dental residents’ preferences and comfort regarding parental presence during operative procedures and preventive visits.





Methods:

Following institutional review board approval, a survey was distributed electronically to 1,132 pediatric dental residents. The anonymous 11 questions survey collected demographic information and assessed training experiences, operatory design, and attitudes toward parental presence using Likert scale and multiple response questions. Responses were analyzed descriptively, and chi-square tests evaluated associations between treatment type, residency year, and parental presence preference. Statistical significance was set at P< .05.





Results:

One hundred ten responses were analyzed, representing all U.S. regions and program types. Most respondents were second-year residents. For operative treatment, 45% agreed they would recommend parents remain in the waiting room upon graduation, while 52% disagreed. For prophylaxis and examination visits, 36% agreed and 61% disagreed with recommending parental exclusion. Residents were significantly more likely to support parental exclusion during operative procedures compared to preventive visits (χ²=23.3, P < .001). No association was found between residency year and parental presence preference (P=1.0).





Conclusions:

Pediatric dental residents demonstrated mixed attitudes toward parental presence, favoring parental inclusion during preventive visits more than operative procedures. Preferences were influenced by clinical context rather than residency year, supporting an individualized, family-centered approach. Enhanced training in behavior guidance and parent communication may improve consistency across residency programs.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by University of Nebraska Medical Center and IRB # 0369-25-EX.