COVID-19 Phobia and Dental Anxiety Among Patients Applying to a University Faculty of Dentistry During The Pandemic Period

ObjectiveThis study examined the sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors, oral health perspectives, and dental service utilization of individuals who applied to a university faculty of dentistry during the controlled normalization period of the COVID-19 pandemic in Türkiye. COVID-19 phobia and dental anxiety levels were assessed, and the relationship between these two constructs was evaluated.Material and MethodThis study was carried out with 390 individuals who applied to a university faculty of dentistry for any reason between January 3 and March 31, 2021, a period corresponding to the controlled normalization phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey during which dental services were delivered under strict infection control measures. In addition to sociodemographic data, participants’ health-related behaviors; perspectives on oral and dental health; and contact, infection, and quarantine status during the pandemic were recorded. The Coronavirus Phobia Scale (C19P-S) was used to assess COVID-19 phobia, and the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) to evaluate dental anxiety. Data were analyzed using a statistical software package.ResultsCOVID-19 phobia was higher in women (p < 0.001), in individuals with chronic diseases (p < 0.05), and in those without a history of COVID-19 infection (p < 0.01). Individuals who had recovered from COVID-19 showed lower phobia scores (p < 0.01). Dental anxiety was higher in women (p < 0.001) and showed a weak but significant positive correlation with COVID-19 phobia (r = 0.32, p < 0.001).ConclusionThe weak but significant association between COVID-19 phobia and dental anxiety suggests that these psychological factors may be present together in some individuals. Taking such factors into account during clinical evaluations may contribute to a better understanding of patients’ approaches to seeking dental care.