PREVALENCE OF DENTAL ANXIETY AMONG THE STUDENTS OF SARHAD UNIVERSITY SCIENCE, INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

Dental anxiety is a prevalent psychological problem that can have a big impact on people's motivation to get dental care, which frequently results in postponed treatment and worsening oral health. This study examines the prevalence of dental

anxiety among university students and pinpoints the causes of the condition. The

objective was to ascertain the frequency and intensity of dental anxiety among Sarhad University students as well as the ways in which anxiety levels are influenced by age, gender, prior experiences, and particular dental procedures. 230 students who were at least 18 years old participated in a cross-sectional study. The Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), a validated questionnaire that gauges anxiety in relation to different dental settings, was used to gather data. Patterns and severity levels were determined by analyzing the responses. The results showed that the majority of participants had mild to moderate dental anxiety, with local anesthesia and tooth drilling treatments causing the highest levels. Anxiety levels were generally greater among female participants and those who had had unpleasant dental encounters in the past. Relatively less anxiety was produced by procedures like scaling and polishing. University students frequently have dental anxiety, which is impacted by both procedural and psychological aspects. These findings highlight the value of patient-centered treatments, such as educational initiatives and anxiety-reduction techniques, in enhancing young adults' dental care experiences and results.