The Prevalence of Dental Fear and Its Relationship to Dental Caries and Gingival Diseases Among School Children
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63278/10.63278/mme.v31.1Keywords:
Dental Fear, Oral Health in Children, Dental Caries and Gingival Diseases.Abstract
Background: Dental fear is a significant public health concern that impacts oral health, particularly in children. This study investigates the prevalence of dental fear among school children aged 7–13 years and its relationship to dental caries and gingival diseases.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 250 children (125 boys and 125 girls) from rural schools. Data collection included a modified Dental Fear Survey questionnaire and clinical oral health examinations assessing dental caries using the DMFT/dmft index and gingival health using the Gingival Index (GI). Statistical analyses evaluated correlations between dental fear and oral health indicators.
Results: Approximately 30.8% of children exhibited high dental fear, with girls reporting higher fear levels than boys. Children with high dental fear had significantly worse oral health outcomes, as indicated by higher mean DMFT/dmft scores (3.8 ± 1.2) and GI scores (2.2 ± 0.8) compared to those with low fear (2.1 ± 0.9 and 1.3 ± 0.6, respectively; p < 0.01).
Conclusion: Dental fear is prevalent among school children and correlates with poorer oral health, particularly higher rates of dental caries and gingival diseases. Targeted interventions, including positive reinforcement and preventive dental care, are essential to mitigate dental anxiety and improve oral health outcomes in children.
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