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Dental anxiety among Australians
W M Thomson1, J F Stewart, K D Carter
1AIHW Dental Statistics and Research Unit, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
International Dental Journal
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Dental anxiety affects 14.9% of Australian adults, with higher prevalence in women and the 35-44 age group. High anxiety correlates with delayed dental care and oral health impacts.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Psychology
Background:
- Dental anxiety is a significant issue impacting oral healthcare access and outcomes.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated factors is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the prevalence of dental anxiety in a representative Australian adult population.
- To examine the associations between dental anxiety and demographic factors, oral health status, and dental visiting patterns.
Main Methods:
- A national dental telephone survey identified a representative sample of Australian adults (aged 18+).
- A sub-sample completed a follow-up postal questionnaire including Corah's Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS).
- Dental anxiety was defined as a DAS score of 13 or higher.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of dental anxiety was 14.9%, with a mean DAS score of 9.04.
- Dental anxiety was more prevalent and severe in women and the 35-44 age group.
- High dental anxiety was associated with deferring dental care, episodic dental visits, and negative impacts from oral conditions.
Conclusions:
- Dental anxiety is a considerable public health concern in Australia.
- The findings highlight the need for targeted strategies to address dental anxiety and its consequences.
- Interventions should consider demographic factors and the impact of oral conditions on anxiety levels.