Rasha N Alotaibi, Leena Alarifi, Razan Mahzari, Shoog Alsalule
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Dental fear and anxiety (DFA) are common physiological barriers that have a complex origin, influenced by multiple factors contributing to their development. DFA can significantly affect dental attendance and oral health behaviour. Studies have indicated that high levels of DFA can lead to delayed care, poorer oral health outcomes and increased treatment complexity.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of dental fear and anxiety among adults at King Saud University and to identify associated sociodemographic and experiential factors, including the influence of social media.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, involving a convenience sample of adult students and employees aged 18 years and older. Participants completed a validated questionnaire incorporating the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), as well as additional items on dental experiences and social media exposure. A total of 401 responses were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and binary logistic regression.
Results: The study revealed that among the participants, 70.32% reported moderate to high dental anxiety (MDAS score ≥ 11). DFA was significantly associated with female gender, history of negative dental experiences and possible exposure to anxiety-provoking dental content on social media (p < 0.05). Approximately 24.44% of participants displayed severe levels of dental anxiety (MDAS score ≥ 19), possibly reaching phobic levels due to the impact of social media.
Conclusion: Dental anxiety is highly prevalent in this university-based population and is influenced by both personal dental experiences and social media exposure. Negative past dental experiences were the most frequently cited triggers for dental fear and anxiety. Interventions to reduce DFA should consider both behavioural support and public messaging strategies, particularly addressing the role of digital media.
期刊介绍：
International Journal of Dental Hygiene is the official scientific peer-reviewed journal of the International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH). The journal brings the latest scientific news, high quality commissioned reviews as well as clinical, professional and educational developmental and legislative news to the profession world-wide. Thus, it acts as a forum for exchange of relevant information and enhancement of the profession with the purpose of promoting oral health for patients and communities.
The aim of the International Journal of Dental Hygiene is to provide a forum for exchange of scientific knowledge in the field of oral health and dental hygiene. A further aim is to support and facilitate the application of new knowledge into clinical practice. The journal welcomes original research, reviews and case reports as well as clinical, professional, educational and legislative news to the profession world-wide.
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