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Assessing the need for anesthesia and sedation in the general population
R A Dionne1, S M Gordon, L M McCullagh
1Pain and Neurosensory Mechanisms Branch, National Institute of Dental Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md. 20892-1258, USA.
Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)
|March 12, 1998
Summary
Dental anxiety affects nearly 30% of the population. Increased availability of anesthesia and sedation could improve regular oral healthcare access for fearful patients.
Area of Science:
- Dental Public Health
- Psychology
Background:
- Dental anxiety is a significant issue affecting a large portion of the general population.
- Fear of dental procedures can lead to avoidance of necessary oral healthcare.
- Pain and anxiety control measures are crucial for patient comfort and treatment adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of dental anxiety in the general population.
- To examine the relationship between dental anxiety and the utilization of pain and anxiety control measures.
- To assess patient preferences for anesthesia and sedation in dental care.
Main Methods:
- A national telephone survey was conducted.
- Data were collected on respondents' levels of dental anxiety.
- Information on the use and preference of pain and anxiety control modalities was gathered.
Main Results:
- Approximately 30% of respondents reported experiencing some level of dental anxiety (nervous, very nervous, or terrified).
- A threefold disparity was observed between the actual use of anesthesia/sedation and patient preference for these methods.
- A significant gap exists between the need for and availability of advanced anxiety management techniques.
Conclusions:
- Dental fear remains a prevalent concern impacting oral health behaviors.
- Enhanced accessibility to general anesthesia and conscious sedation could encourage fearful patients to seek regular dental care.
- Addressing dental anxiety through improved sedation options is vital for public oral health.
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