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Dentists' views on fearful patients. Problems and promises
Carl-Otto Brahm1, Jesper Lundgren, Sven G Carlsson
1Department of Behavioural and Community Dentistry, Sahlgrenska Academy, Sweden. Carl-Otto.Brahm@gu.se
Swedish Dental Journal
|August 11, 2012
Summary
Dentists generally view treating dental fear positively, seeing it as a challenge and a contribution. However, they experience stress and lack of employer appreciation, particularly when treating many fearful patients.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Psychology in Dentistry
Background:
- Dental fear is prevalent among patients in Western countries.
- Dentists' perspectives on managing dental fear are under-researched.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate dentists' attitudes, experiences, and feelings regarding the treatment of patients with dental fear.
- To identify factors influencing dentists' perceptions of treating dental fear.
Main Methods:
- A web survey was distributed to 1293 members of the Association of Public Health Dentists in Sweden.
- A response rate of 69% (n=889) was achieved, providing data on dentists' views on dental fear.
Main Results:
- Most dentists perceive dental fear as a significant issue in routine care but view treating fearful patients as a positive challenge and a valuable contribution.
- Dentists reported that treating dental fear involves hard work, low financial returns, and minimal employer recognition.
- Female dentists reported higher self-efficacy and a greater proportion of fearful patients compared to male dentists.
- Dentists trained outside Sweden (EU) reported more stress and less perceived contribution than those trained domestically.
Conclusions:
- Dentists' overall attitudes toward treating dental fear are predominantly positive, acknowledging its importance and their contribution.
- Significant challenges persist, including reported stress and a lack of appreciation from employers, especially for dentists managing a high volume of fearful patients.
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