Prevalence of dental fear among male students studying in National Guard schools in Riyadh: A cross-sectional study

Aims: The aim of the study is to measure the prevalence and factors associated with dental fear among National Guard male middle schools students. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 468 students aged 10–17 years. The assessment tool of this study was a self-reported questionnaire filled by students or their legal guardians. The questionnaire included 33 questions; including students' demographics and experience in dental fear. Furthermore, questions related to the most frightening factors as well as factors that make students feel better in dental clinics. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software. Frequency distributions with numbers and percentages of demographics, frightening factors, and comforting factors were conducted. Results: The response rate was 87%. Dental fear was reported by 29.1% of the sample. Tooth extraction was feared the most (49%) followed by root canal treatment (16%). The main sources of fear were related to dental procedures and noise from drilling teeth. The fear was originated from children own experience (41%) and only 13% relate their fear to what they heard from other people's experience. Variables reduced fear were female dentists (73%), the good reputation of the dentist (55%), and elegance and cleanness of the clinic (47%). The good appearance and neatness of the dentist, attitude of the receptionist, and decreased waiting time were not major factors in reducing dental fear. Conclusion: Dental fear was present in 29% of schoolchildren and was mostly related to tooth extractions and drilling noise. Dentist's explanation of the dental procedure and her attitudes were reported as helping factors in reducing dental fear.