Exploring the Etiology of Dental Fear Among Candidates for Endodontic Treatment:A Qualitative Investigation

Introduction: Dental fear poses significant challenges for patients, dentists, and society, particularly during root canal treatment, which is one of the most anxiety-inducing dental procedures. Understanding the underlying causes of dental fear in patients undergoing root canal therapy is essential for improving patient care. Aim: This study aims to identify and explore the factors contributing to dental fear among candidates for endodontic treatment in Kerman, Iran. Methods and materials: A qualitative approach was employed, consisting of 37 semi-structured individual interviews and 3 focus group discussions. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved. Participants rated their level of dental fear using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, and thematic content analysis was performed to identify codes and themes related to dental fear. Results: The analysis revealed that previous unpleasant dental experiences were the most frequently cited cause of dental fear. Other contributing factors included fear of anesthetic injections and pain experienced during or after treatment. The average fear score on the VAS was 7.81 ± 2.15 (Range: 2– 10). Ten participants reported experiencing no fear during the procedure, highlighting variability in patient responses. Conclusions: Dental fear was found to be highly prevalent among patients undergoing endodontic treatment in this study. Several key factors contributed to this fear, particularly negative past dental experiences, fear of anesthetic injections, and anticipated pain. Recognizing and addressing these factors can help dentists improve patient care and enhance treatment outcomes.