PREDICTORS OF DENTAL ANXIETY IN CHILDREN: SELF-PERCEPTION AND PARENTAL FACTORS ORIGINAL ARTICLE

Abstract

Objectives: To identify the factors involved with dental anxiety in children. Matherial and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with children aged 8–12 years and their parents. They were interviewed and examined. Oral health and treatment need perceptions were assessed using a self-reported index. Information about DMFT and dental anxiety scores were collected from children and their parents. Regression analysis was obtained to find association between anxiety in children scores and all variables studied. Spearman’s correlation coefficients were calculated to determine possible correlations between variables. Results: Significant association was observed between the child’s oral health self-perception, DMFT and parents’ anxiety. It was found a significant correlation between dental anxiety and oral health self perception to children and adults. Moreover, dental anxiety in children is positive correlated to DMFT. Conclusions: Dental anxiety in children is affected by parental dental anxiety. Moreover, it seems child’s dental anxiety is influenced not only by DMFT scores but also by oral health self-perception.