The relationship between DMFT status and dental anxiety

Objective: This study aimed to assess the anxiety trait, the anxiety state, the dental anxiety, as well as the oral health of a group of patients who were referred to a maxillofacial surgery department. Material and Method: The study was conducted between 1 May 2019 and 31 May 2019. All patients were administered the anxiety-trait and anxiety state using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory questionnaires and Corah’s Dental Anxiety Scale. Then, they were clinically examined, and a DMFT index score was calculated according to the WHO criteria and recorded for each patient. Demographics, smoking, and alcohol habits were also recorded for each patient. Results: Overall, 81 patients (52 females, 29 males) completed the study. Statistical analyses revealed a statistically significant association between occasional or daily smoking and high DMFT scores (p < 0.005). As for anxiety, a statistically significant association was observed between both high anxiety state and trait and high DMFT scores (p < 0.05), as well as between moderate or severe dental anxiety and high DMFT scores (p < 0.05). Conclusion: A higher anxiety is associated with a higher DMFT score. The assessment of dental anxiety may be necessary for routine diagnostic work-ups during dental practice. In more severe cases, a multidisciplinary approach with the aid of behavioral health or psychological professionals may be a valid option.