Investigation of the Relationship between Mindfulness Awareness, Anxiety, Dental Anxiety, and Oral Hygiene Status in Population

Abstract

Objectives: Attention and awareness are essential features of human nature. Mindfulness can be defined as increased attention and awareness of the experience that exists in the present moment. Dental anxiety is a state of intense restlessness that develops due to fear and delusions due to dental examination and treatment. Periodontitis, periodontal plaque, and bleeding are known as major periodontal diseases. There are many different reasons for the development of these diseases, including the education level of the person, his knowledge of health and oral health, the state of physician and hospital concerns, and awareness. Our study, it was aimed to investigate whether the level of mindfulness and dental anxiety status of individuals influences periodontal health by using different scales. Materials and Methods: In our study, 100 systemic and psychologically healthy patients, aged 25-35, at least high school graduates, who applied to Atatürk University Faculty of Dentistry for dental examination and treatment were included. First of all, the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-1, STAI-2), Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), and Dental Fear Survey (DFS) tests were applied to the patients. Then, a periodontal examination of the patients was performed and plaque indices and bleeding indices were determined. Results: No correlation was found between the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) and periodontal bleeding, and plaque index.