Evaluation of Stress and Self-Perceived Barriers among Pediatric Dentists during the Dental Treatment of Children in Bengaluru City, India

Abstract

Background: The provision of quality dental treatment can be challenging in children due to their disruptive behavior and also the expectations and behavior of accompanying parents. Objective: To evaluate the stressors and identify the challenges among pediatric dentists during the treatment of the pediatric patient. Methodology: The present descriptive, cross-sectional study comprised of posting a self-administered questionnaire to 80 pediatric dentists across Bengaluru city in India. Results: The stress levels amongst the participants were determined based on the parameters such as the age of the child patient, cooperation, and parental presence/absence in the operatory. The majority (46.6%) of the respondents exhibited moderate stress (26-30 score) (mean score of 27.54+1.32); however, only about 8.3% of respondents exhibited severe stress (mean score of 32.80+1.30). About 36.6% demonstrated mild stress (mean score of 22.95+1.36). Six respondents (10%) did not exhibit any stress. Female respondents exhibited more stress levels (58.3% - moderate stress) compared to males (38.3%), and the difference was statistically significant. A comparison of the stress levels based on experience showed that the respondents with a work experience of < 5 years demonstrated higher stress levels compared to those with >5 years. The association between stress levels and the most difficult treatment procedure in children showed that local anesthesia administration (68%), followed by cavity preparation (66.7%) and tooth extraction (50%) contributed to stress among the participants. Conclusion: Identification and appropriate management of job-related stressors are decisive in improving the performance, satisfaction, and personal health of pediatric dentists.