ArticleHealthcare (Basel, Switzerland)2026
Dental Anxiety and Associated Demographic and Dental Attendance Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study Using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale.
Article in Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundDental anxiety is a common barrier to dental care and may influence treatment-seeking behavior and regular attendance. This study aimed to evaluate dental anxiety using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), examine its distribution across demographic and dental-care characteristics, and identify factors independently associated with high dental anxiety.
methodsThis cross-sectional study included 1005 participants aged ≥ 16 years attending dental clinics. Dental anxiety was assessed using the five-item MDAS, with scores ≥19 indicating high dental anxiety. Group differences in MDAS scores were evaluated using non-parametric tests, and internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha. Associations with high dental anxiety were examined using categorical analyses and multivariable Firth-penalized logistic regression.
resultsThe median MDAS score was 11 (IQR, 7-15), and 49 participants (4.9%) had high dental anxiety. MDAS scores differed significantly according to gender, age group, education level, dental attendance frequency, reason for dental visit, and history of post-treatment complications (all
conclusionsDental anxiety was generally low to moderate in this clinical sample, although a small subgroup met the threshold for high dental anxiety. Gender, age, dental attendance patterns, and reason for dental visit were associated with high dental anxiety. Regular dental attendance was associated with lower odds of high dental anxiety; however, the cross-sectional design precludes inference regarding the direction of this relationship. Brief anxiety screening and individualized communication may help identify and support patients with greater dental anxiety.
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