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Relationship between needle phobia and dental anxiety
Martina Majstorovic1, Jaap S J Veerkamp
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Clinical Hospital Zagreb, Croatia.
Summary
Needle phobia decreases with age in children, affecting 19% of 4-6 year olds versus 11% of 10-11 year olds. This phobia is distinct from dental anxiety and linked to other painful medical treatments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychology
- Dental Anxiety Research
- Childhood Phobia Studies
Background:
- Needle phobia is a common concern in pediatric healthcare.
- Understanding age-related differences is crucial for effective interventions.
- The relationship between needle phobia and dental anxiety requires further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and nature of needle phobia in children.
- To examine the association between needle phobia and dental anxiety.
- To identify age-related variations in needle phobia.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 2,865 children aged 4-11 years.
- Utilized the Children Fear Survey Schedule--Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS) to assess needle phobia and dental anxiety.
- Categorized children by age (4-6, 7-9, 10-11 years) and anxiety levels.
Main Results:
- Needle phobia prevalence decreased with age (19% in 4-6 year olds vs. 11% in 10-11 year olds).
- Needle phobia was not primarily linked to dental anxiety; factors like mouth examination and dental drilling were more significant.
- Fear of doctors was more specific to high-anxiety children.
Conclusions:
- Needle phobia is age-related but a distinct phenomenon from dental anxiety.
- Interventions for needle phobia should consider its independence from dental fears.
- The phobia is associated with other painful medical procedures beyond dental care.