Evaluating the Correlation between IQ and Behavior of 5-10-year-old Children in Dental Operatory: A Cross-sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: Children with higher intelligence quotients (IQs) tend to manage dental stress better, follow instructions, and cooperate calmly. Lower IQs may correlate with increased anxiety and reduced compliance. Recognizing these behavioral patterns enables clinicians to tailor supportive approaches, enhancing treatment experiences and outcomes. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the relation between children's IQ and their behavior in the dental operatory. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study evaluated how the IQ of children aged 5-10 years influenced their cooperation during dental treatments. A total of 180 children with no previous dental history, requiring pulpectomy or extraction in primary teeth, were selected for the study. All participants received local anesthesia before the procedure. The children's IQs were measured using the Raven's Progressive Matrices test, and the treatments were subsequently performed. Cooperation levels were assessed using the Modified Frankl's behavior rating scale, ranging from 1 (definitely negative) to 5 (definitely positive). The study analyzed the relationship between IQ scores and the type of cooperative behavior during dental procedures. RESULTS: This study establishes a statistically significant link between higher IQ and better behavioral cooperation in children during pediatric dental procedures. Integrating cognitive assessment can enhance behavior management strategies and optimize clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: High IQ enhances children's adaptability in dental settings, enabling tailored behavior modification strategies for more effective treatment outcomes. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Understanding a child's IQ helps dentists choose better behavior techniques, improving cooperation and treatment success.