A census-matched survey of dental fear and fear-treatment interest in the United States

Background

The authors aimed to measure dental fear prevalence via the first national census-matched US adult sample and, among fearful people, interest in evidence-based digital fear treatment (ie, computerized, mobile application, and telehealth approaches) or reasons for declining.

Methods

A cross-sectional census-matched online survey (n = 1,003) was conducted (October 31-November 11, 2024) ensuring representation of US adult demographic characteristics. Dental fear was assessed using the validated Gatchel single-item scale (from 0 [no fear] through 10 [extreme fear]). People with moderate through severe fear were asked about their interest in digital treatment and, if they refused, about their reasons for declining.

Results

The prevalence was 72.6% (95% CI, 70.9% to 74.3%), with 45.8% reporting moderate fear and 26.8% reporting severe fear. Among fearful people, 71.2% (95% CI, 69.4% to 73.0%) were interested in digital treatment. Those who declined indicated skepticism about effectiveness (31.8%), satisfaction with their coping strategies (23.4%), and time concerns (22.3%).

Conclusions

Dental fear remains widespread in the United States, suggesting little progress in prevalence reduction. The high interest in digital treatment indicates demand for accessible interventions.

Practical Implications

Brief digital dental fear treatments offer potential for widespread dissemination. Public health messaging must address skepticism about treatment effectiveness and value among the fearful patients not yet interested (≈ 30%).