Dental Psychological Stress or Phobia among Orthodontic Patients of Mardan

Abstract

Objective: To assess the psychological stress or phobia due to dental procedure among patients. Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study Place and Duration of Study: Department of Orthodontic, Bacha Khan College of Dentistry/Medical Teaching Institute, Mardan from 1st January 2020 to 31st August 2021. Methodology: One hundred and twenty patients coming for orthodontal treatment with age between 12-31 years were enrolled. The demographic and psychological stress information was recorded. Results: There were more females (65%) than males (35%). The mean age was 15.5±3.2 years. About 82.5% patients reported high level of psychological stress or phobias towards dental treatments while 19.1% were those who had moderate psychological stress or phobias. Majority of the patient’s fear of pain was between 12-17 years. Patients having highest anxiety also belonged to the same group Conclusion: Dental phobias and fears are widespread among patients seeking dental treatments. Orthodontists should recognize the dental phobias and fears so they efficiently interconnect with the patients. Key words: Orthodontic treatment, Pain, Dental phobia