DENTAL FEAR AND ORAL HEALTH BELIEFS.

Abstract

Background: One of important dimensions of health belief model, barriers to availing professional health care, is documented to be a prominent determinant of maintenance of health. Dental fear and anxiety may be an important barrier in maintaining optimum oral health. The present study explored if fear of dentistry has the scope of influencing oral health beliefs.

Methods: 84 patients aged 20 to 40 years visiting dental institute for management of gum diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) and tooth decay (dental caries) were enrolled. Fear of dentistry and oral health beliefs were recorded employing Dental fear survey and oral health beliefs. Results: Correlation statistics were applied. Oral health beliefs were found to be significantly negatively correlated with three factors of dental fear survey. Conclusion: Fear and anxiety for dentistry may bear negative impact on oral health beliefs.

Keywords: Dental anxiety; Oral health; Health behaviour; Health belief.