IMPACT OF SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES ON DENTAL ANXIETY AMONG PATIENTS VISITING TERTIARY HOSPITAL IN KATHMANDU

Abstract

Background: Dental anxiety is a common problem that affects people all over the world, causing them to avoid or be distressed during dental procedures and negatively influencing their oral health. This cross-sectional study was aimed to assess dental anxiety among patients at TU Teaching Hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was undertaken in a department of prosthodontics, Institute of medicine, Maharajgunj, Kathmandu. Modified Dental Anxiety Scale-Nepali (MDAS-N) was utilized to assess the levels of dental anxiety. Non-probability (purposive) sampling was used and face-to-face interviews were conducted among 73 participants visiting the hospital for dental procedures. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 17.

Results: The findings revealed that participants generally experienced moderate dental anxiety, with 11% reporting extreme anxiety, 20.5% high anxiety, 34.2% moderate anxiety, and 30.1% low anxiety. Additionally, 4.1% of respondents were classified as not anxious based on MDAS-N scores. Younger individuals and women tended to exhibit higher levels of dental anxiety. The findings indicate the significance of addressing dental anxiety to improve oral health-seeking behaviors as well as overall oral health outcomes.

Conclusions: The level of anxiety depended upon specific dental procedures; the greatest anxiety was prior to tooth drilling and least anxiety before teeth scaling and polishing. Recommendations include collaboration with mental health professionals, encouraging patient feedback, and community outreach initiatives to raise awareness and support individuals experiencing dental anxiety.