Community Perceptions of Dental Care: Examining Dental Fear and Anxiety

Dentistry is essential for preventing oral disease, improving systemic health, and promoting positive self-image (Mills, et al., 2023). In the absence of dental care, patients may be at a higher risk for developing chronic health conditions and a lower quality of life (Kane, 2017). Therefore, it is prudent to understand why patients may avoid visiting dentists. Dental fear is associated with specific stimuli or interactions with dental professionals while dental anxiety is associated with anticipation of procedures or future visits (Appukuttun, 2016). The present descriptive research study uses two validated scales to measure dental fear and anxiety: the Index of Dental Anxiety and Fear (IDAF-4C; Armfield, 2010) and the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS; Humphris et al., 1995). The IDAF-4C assesses behavioral and physiological aspects of dental fear and anxiety, phobia, and stimulus while the MDAS assesses anxiety that may be present in anticipation of dental care. Demographic data is also being collected in this ongoing study. Understanding dental fear and anxiety at the community level may allow dentists to tailor approaches specific to the needs of the local community to promote patient centered care and ultimately improve health outcomes.