Evaluation of child preference for dentist attire and usage of camouflage syringe in reduction of anxiety

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to evaluate the child preference for dentist attire and camouflage versus conventional syringe in reduction of anxiety. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 600 children aged 6–14 years were made to look at a set of six photos of an individual dressed with different colored apron of pink, green, blue, white colors, formal dress, and cartoon character along with conventional syringe and camouflage syringe with a toy-like appearance to permit injection of local anesthesia. Children's anxiety level during injections and with colored coat was assessed and recorded using the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale faces version. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: SPSS statistical software version 21 and using Chi-square test. RESULTS: Among age group of 6–8 years, 65.33% selected colorful apron, while other age groups 9–10, 11–12 years, and 13–14 years selected 47.34%, 57.34%, and 50.67% white coat, respectively (P < 0.05). For syringe, 78% of younger age group (6–10 years) preferred camouflage syringe, whereas 71% of older age group (11–14 years) preferred conventional syringe. Anxiety level of all children for syringe was more compared to that of white coat. CONCLUSION: Younger children prefer colorful attire of dentist and camouflage syringe over conventional compared to older one.