The effect of Previous Dental Treatments on Dental Anxiety in Children Aged 4-12

Abstract

Objective: The patient’s cooperation is crucial for the success of dental treatment. In addition to previous treatments, various factors such as socio-economic status, age, gender, and oral hygiene can influence dental anxiety. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of previous dental treatment experiences on dental anxiety. Material and Method: Children aged 4-12 years who applied for dental treatment, along with their families, participated in the study. During their children’s dental treatment, families completed a survey form containing sociodemographic data and information about previous dental treatments. Before the procedure, children were shown five pictures from the Facial Image Scale and asked to choose the picture that best represented their current emotion. The degree of cooperation during the procedure was assessed using the Frankl Behavior Scale. The interaction of patients’ dental anxiety with various factors was analyzed. ANOVA post-hoc analysis and Tukey’s test were used for multiple comparisons of normally distributed variables among continuous variation variables. Kruskal-Wallis post-hoc analysis and the Mann-Whitney U test were used for variables that did not follow a normal distribution. Results: Dental anxiety was found to be higher in girls and younger age groups, although this difference was not statistically significant. According to the Frankl scale, children who attended routine dental check-ups and had previous dental treatment experiences had higher scores, regardless of whether the previous treatment was favorable or unfavorable. Based on the Facial Image Scale, it was observed that children with no previous dental treatment selected more positive faces, whereas children with negative dental treatment experiences selected more negative faces. Conclusion: Previous dental treatment experiences and routine check-ups significantly impact reducing dental anxiety by familiarizing the child with the clinical environment and the dentist, as well as by reducing the need for invasive dental procedures. Therefore, to eliminate the negative effects of dental anxiety, preventive dental treatments should be emphasized by bringing children to regular dental check-ups at an early age, thus minimizing the need for invasive dental treatments.