The Camouflage Effect

Background: Pediatric dentistry is different than dentistry practiced in adults. Children tend to be more anxious before a dental treatments which prevent them from cooperating whole heartedly before any procedure. This is also one of the most basic reasons for avoidance and neglect of dental care. Dental setting plays a very important role in managing a child's anxiety. Making the atmosphere around the child positive by adding the child's favourite color in the dental set up will definitely contribute in improving the anxiety of the child prior a treatment. Aim: To analyse the effect of colors on children's emotions and variations in anxiety levels using different colored dental operatory equipment and instruments. Objective: This study is done to evaluate the association between colors and emotions in pediatric dental practice. Material and Methods: 50 anxious children who were classified based on modified child dental anxiety scale were included in the study. Children were asked to choose a color to shade the happy face drawn on a piece of paper given to them. The dental operatory equipment and armamentarium was covered in the color chosen by the child and then the procedure was performed. The anxiety level in the child was assessed again. Results: There was significant difference in the anxiety of the child before and after the treatment. Yellow was the most chosen color to depict positive emotion in the child. Conclusion: The use of child friendly colors in the workplace like yellow and blue could enhance a positive dental attitude in a child's mind.