# Evaluation of Dental Anxiety, Demographic Characteristics, and Oral Health Profiles Among Non-Physician Healthcare Undergraduate Students

## TL;DR

This study examines dental anxiety in non-physician healthcare students and finds that females, non-smokers, and those from low-income families experience higher anxiety, which can be reduced with regular dental visits.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into dental anxiety among non-physician healthcare students and identifies key demographic and behavioral factors influencing it.

## Key findings

- Female students and those from low-income families tend to have higher dental anxiety.
- Regular dental visits help reduce anxiety among non-physician healthcare students.
- Non-smokers have higher dental anxiety levels but lower state anxiety scores.

## Abstract

To assess the relationship between dental anxiety and sociodemographic factors, oral health status, and oral health behaviors among non-physician healthcare (NPH) undergraduate students.

This study included students from the Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation (PTR), the Faculty of Nursing, and the Vocational School of Healthcare (VSH). Dental anxiety levels were measured using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and Spielberg’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). The students completed a questionnaire regarding demographic characteristics, living, and oral hygiene habits. Oral health status was evaluated through clinical examination using the DMFT Index and the Oral Hygiene Index (OHI). Statistical analyses were performed using χ2, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney tests (p < 0.05).

A total of 844 students were included in the study. The average MDAS, STAI-1 and STAI-2 scores were 10.80±4.35, 41.04±6.42, and 47.06±6.75, respectively. Seven percent of the students experienced high anxiety. Females had higher MDAS and STAI-2 scores (p<0.01; p<0.01, respectively). No statistically significant differences were found in MDAS levels based on DMFT and OHI scores. Non-smokers have higher MDAS anxiety levels (p=0.002), however, lower STAI-1 scores (p<.001). MDAS and STAI-1 scores regarding family income exhibited statistically significant differences (p<0.005; p<0.005, respectively). No statistically significant difference was found between first- and final-year students regarding anxiety levels (p=0.324). Students who had regular dental visits had lower MDAS scores (p<0.001).

Female students and those from low-income families tend to have higher dental anxiety. Regular dental visits help reduce anxiety among NPH students. Smoking also contributes to dental anxiety.