Prevalence of Dental Anxiety in Active Duty Service Members
Abstract
Introduction: Dental anxiety is a major barrier for both patients and dentists that diminishes the effectiveness of dental care, resulting in poor oral health and lower quality of life. Currently, there is limited knowledge concerning the prevalence of dental anxiety in the active duty military service population. Purpose: To assess the prevalence of dental anxiety in active duty military servicemembers seen at the Dental and Readiness clinics of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC). Methods: Study participants (n=289) voluntarily completed an anonymous survey comprised of a demographics questionnaire and the Index of Dental Anxiety and Dental Fear (IDAF-4C+). Results: Moderate to high dental anxiety was detected in 10.4 percent (n=30) of the study participants with 9 percent respondents reporting avoidance of dental visit due to dental anxiety. The prevalence of dental anxiety in this study is lower than other studies from the general non-military population. These participants also reported pain, needles or injections, unkind dentist, feeling embarrassed or ashamed, and not being in control as at least somewhat anxiety-provoking. There was no statistically significant gender (male vs. female) or rank (enlisted vs. officer) differences in the prevalence of dental anxiety. However, there was a positive correlation between dental anxiety and increasing age (p<0.05). Conclusions: These results suggest the need for additional research on prevalence of dental anxiety in the United States military populations. Understanding dental anxiety and applying appropriate interventions for those experiencing this distressing issue will help patients follow through with needed dental care and may improve mission readiness. Screening for dental anxiety and dental anxiety management should be an integral part of comprehensive oral care.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1128054
Entities
People
- Hoan Boi Nghiem
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences