Assessment of general pre and postoperative anxiety in patients undergoing tooth extraction: a prospective study

Etiology of Dental Anxiety and Dental Phobia: Review

This article examines the etiology of dental anxiety, a common yet often overlooked condition in dental practice. Ranging from mild discomfort to severe dental phobia, dental anxiety significantly affects a patient's ability to receive necessary care. Despite its prevalence, it remains underexplored in scientific research, leading to inadequate treatment and insufficient attention. Understanding the factors behind dental anxiety is crucial for prevention and for providing effective psychotherapeutic and pharmacological interventions.The review was based on a comprehensive search of several scientific databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Database, and Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source. Predefined keywords, such as "Dental Anxiety," "Dental Phobia," and "Etiology," were used to ensure broad coverage of relevant studies. The factors contributing to dental anxiety are multifactorial and involve both internal and external influences. Internal factors, such as genetic predispositions and central nervous system dysfunctions, interact with external influences, including personal experiences, negative past dental encounters, and environmental stimuli. Demographic factors, such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status, along with personal characteristics like temperament and coping mechanisms, further contribute to the development of anxiety.Previous negative dental experiences and self-reported poor oral health exacerbate anxiety, increasing the likelihood of developing dental phobia, which often results in care avoidance. This avoidance worsens oral health, resulting in conditions such as caries and periodontal disease, and significantly diminishes the quality of life. Addressing dental anxiety is critical for improving patient cooperation and ensuring better long-term oral health outcomes. A more comprehensive understanding of dental anxiety will help identify at-risk patients early, prevent severe forms of dental phobia, and ensure dental care is accessible to all individuals.In conclusion, dental anxiety is a multifactorial issue that impacts access to dental care and overall oral health. The most significant factor contributing to dental anxiety is trauma associated with previous dental procedures. Expanding the understanding of its causes enables dental professionals to identify at-risk patients and develop tailored interventions. By addressing anxiety early and adopting evidence-based strategies, dental professionals can reduce the prevalence of dental anxiety and improve patient care.

Effect of music intervention on dental anxiety and fear: A bibliometric analysis of RCTs from 2004 to 2024

BACKGROUND

Dental treatments, especially invasive procedures, often induce anxiety and fear, impacting future treatment adherence. Music intervention, a non-pharmacological approach, has shown promise in reducing anxiety and enhancing well-being, but further research is needed to explore its application in dental settings and the influence of factors like music type, duration, and volume.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effects of music interventions on dental anxiety and fear, analyze research trends, and identify knowledge gaps through a bibliometric analysis of randomized controlled trials.

METHODS

Data from eligible studies were extracted through a comprehensive search. Descriptive bibliometrics, citation analysis, and keyword analysis were performed to assess research outputs, distribution, hotspots, and trends. Different human development indices (HDI) were used to analyze variations in publication year, sex distribution, and interventions across countries.

RESULTS

This study included 46 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from 2004 to 2024, with a mean annual growth rate of 5.95 %. India, Japan, and Turkey led the research output and citations. Approximately 4112 participants, with 45.68 % males were enrolled. Most RCTs focused on adults (65.22 %) and used passive music interventions (73.91 %). The most common treatment was dental extraction (39.13 %), with classical music being the predominant intervention (60.87 %). The control group were often blank (80.43 %). Various indicators of anxiety and fear have been reported. Significant differences were found in the sex distribution among the different HDI ranks (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study outlined the research profile of music interventions for reducing anxiety and fear during dental treatments, with India, Japan, and Turkey leading in terms of output. The most frequently studied intervention is classical music, which is typically used preoperatively. Notable sex distribution differences were observed across HDI groups. Future research trends should include more extensive trials, personalized interventions, standardized guidelines, and enhanced collaboration to optimize patient engagement and emotional regulation.

Anaesthetic efficacy of intraligamentary injection compared to incisive nerve block using 3% mepivacaine hydrochloride: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

In dentistry, local anesthetic is frequently used to manage pain throughout several phases of dental treatments, including tooth extraction. The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two techniques for controlling pain during mandibular exodontia (tooth extraction), specifically focusing on the pain experienced during injection and extraction of mandibular anterior and premolars teeth. The two techniques being compared are the intraligamentary injection technique (ILI) and the incisive nerve block technique (INB).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, 100 mandibular anterior and premolars and teeth that were indicated for extraction were included. The effectiveness of the two local anaesthesia techniques, intraligamentary injection technique (ILI) and incisive nerve block (INB), were compared using Modified Dental Anxiety Scale for Dental Extraction Procedure (MDAS-DEP) and visual analogue scale (VAS) during the injection and extraction stages of the procedure.

RESULTS

A total of 100 participants (42 females, 58 males) with a mean age of 50.97 ± 11.59 years took part in the study. The mean VAS score in the INB group was 6.14 after injection and 3.86 after extraction, while in the ILI group, it was 5.46 and 2.90, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups both after injection (p = 0.001) and extraction (p < 0.001), as well as within each group (Control: p < 0.001; Study: p < 0.001). For MDAS-DEP, the INB group had mean scores of 15.86 and 11.26 after injection and extraction, respectively, while the ILI group had scores of 15.68 and 10.94, showing a significant difference within each group after both injection (p < 0.001) and extraction (p = 0.001). However, no significant difference was found when comparing MDAS-DEP scores between the two groups from injection to extraction (p = 0.802).

CONCLUSION

The intraligamentary injection technique (ILI) appears less painful during injection and provides profound pain relief during extraction. The results suggest that ILI can be used as a sole anaesthetic technique during extraction of lower anterior and premolar teeth.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was retrospectively registered on 27/01/2023 with the identifier ISRCTN83272316 in Isrctn.com.

Can Verbal Interview Decrease Preoperative Anxiety and Postoperative Discomfort in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Patients?: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Preoperative anxiety is a condition that can be seen frequently in oral and maxillofacial surgery patients and affects the recovery process.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of preoperative educational or informative interviews on preoperative anxiety levels and postoperative discomfort in patients undergoing oral and maxillofacial surgery.

STUDY DESIGN, SETTING, AND SAMPLE

This prospective randomized clinical trial involved patients who underwent oral and maxillofacial surgery at Aydın-Adnan-Menderes University, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Hospital. Patients with neurological or psychological disorders, a history of previous psychiatric drug use, those who used anxiolytic or sedative drugs before surgery, those who required postoperative anxiolytic and opioid administration, or patients who underwent nonstandard surgical and anesthesia protocols were excluded.

EXPOSURE VARIABLE

Preoperative educational or informative interview is the exposure variable. Subjects were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups.

MAIN OUTCOME VARIABLES

The primary outcome variable was preoperative anxiety measured by the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information scale (APAIS). The secondary outcome variables were postoperative pain measured by visual analog scale at the first and sixth hours, postoperative nausea (repeated gagging or spitting), and postoperative vomiting (active vomiting) were observed within 6 hours following general anaesthesia.

COVARIATES

The study's covariates were age, weight, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Classification System score, marital status, edicational background, surgery procedure, anesthesia procedure, duration of surgery, and recovery time.

ANALYSES

The χ2 and student t-tests were used to compare primary predictor and covariates against outcome variables. A P value <.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

A total of 92 patients were included in this study, with 46 randomized to intervention group and 46 to control group. The mean age (37.78 ± 13.94 years vs 33.34 ± 15.17 years, P = .16) and sex differences (female/male: 16/30(34.8/65.2) versus 26/20(56.5/43.5), P = .06) were comparable between groups. While higher values were recorded in the average anxiety scores in the control group than in the study group, statistically significant differences were found [Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-S (37.36 ± 10.87 vs 52.39 ± 12.13) (P < .01), APAIS-T (15.82 ± 5.35 vs 21.39 ± 6.69) (P < .01), APAIS-A (4.17 ± 2.12 vs 6.47 ± 2.15) (P < .01), APAIS-B (5.76 ± 2.03 vs 7.65 ± 2.60) (P < .01), and APAIS-C (6.04 ± 2.47 vs 7.21 ± 2.38), (P < .05)]. At the same time, there was also a significant difference in terms of early postoperative pain [(2.08 ± 2.77 vs 3.43 ± 2.86), (P = .02)] and postoperative nausea [12/34 (26.1/73.9) versus 25/21(54.3/45.7), (P = .01)].

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Oral and maxillofacial surgery causes significant situational anxiety. This study showed that preoperative educational or informative interviews reduced preoperative anxiety levels and postoperative discomfort, such as early postoperative pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Influence of Education on Dental Anxiety and Fear in Mental Disorders after Viewing a Molar Extraction in Three Types of Mental Disorder Compared to Persons with No Mental Disorder

Objective: The goal of this study is to validate the psychometric properties of the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and the Dental Fear Scale (DFS) at three different times: seven days before, immediately after, and seven days after watching a video of surgical extraction of a lower third molar in a sample with four strata: anxiety disorder, adjustment disorder, mixed anxiety-depressive disorder, and no mental disorder ages 18-70 in a psychiatric clinic in Malaga. Methods: The Research Ethics Committee of the Virgen Macarena-Virgen del Rocío Hospitals approved the study. After being interviewed by a psychiatrist and subsequently completing the Hamilton Rating Scales for Anxiety and Depression, the participants were divided into 4 strata (60 persons in each). The influence of education level was then analyzed. Results: The scales demonstrated good psychometric properties, with higher MDAS and DFS scores for lower levels of education and mixed anxiety-depressive disorder. Conclusions: Patients who show higher levels of dental anxiety and dental fear will be those with lower education levels, as well as those who suffer from mixed anxiety-depressive disorder.

Factors Influencing Peri-Extraction Anxiety: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Fear and anxiety are common psychological responses to unpleasant stimuli, with dental fear being the fourth most prevalent type of fear or phobia. However, not all dental procedures cause the same level of anxiety, with dental surgery and tooth extraction being among the top five most frightening procedures in the field. Tooth extractions are also the most common surgical procedure in dental surgery. It is important to manage anxiety in the dental office by identifying the main factors.

METHODS

The study was conducted on a group of 250 patients. The survey technique and the Beliefs about Pain Control Questionnaire (BPCQ) were used in the study. Pain and stress intensity on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were measured in each patient before and after tooth extraction procedures.

RESULTS

Young women and people from small towns had the highest levels of anxiety. The factor causing the highest level of anxiety was fear of complications. Patients undergoing extraction of retained teeth were characterized by higher levels of anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative stress is strongly dependent on numerous factors. For patient comfort, it may be crucial for dentists to have knowledge about these factors and the ability to utilize them to reduce stress before and after tooth extractions.

Investigation of the effect of virtual reality distraction in patients undergoing mandibular periodontal surgery: A randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVE

This clinical study aimed to evaluate the effect of virtual reality (VR) technology on anxiety and pain levels in patients undergoing gingivectomy and gingivoplasty procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The patients were randomized into test (surgery with VR glasses) and control (surgery without VR glasses) groups. Before the surgery, the anxiety level was measured using the modified dental anxiety scale (MDAS), and anticipated pain (AP) was measured by a visual analog scale (VAS). Immediately after the surgery, the pain and discomfort associated with the surgery (VASP), procedure time (T), and time perception (TP) were evaluated. The patients in the test group were requested to assess the immersion (VASI), satisfaction (VASS), perception of reduced anxiety (VASA), and perceived control (VASC). One week after surgery, MDAS was applied to all patients.

RESULTS

This trial was conducted with 41 female and 17 male subjects with a mean age of 29.69 ± 12.32. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of age, sex, preoperative MDAS, or AP. After surgery, MDAS, VASP, T, and TP failed to differ significantly between the groups. The subject age was positively correlated with VASI, VASS, VASA, and VASC (r = 0.60, p = 0.00; r = 0.44, p = 0.02; r = 0.46, p = 0.02; r = 0.50, p = 0.01, respectively) and negatively correlated with VASP (r = 0.47, p = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

VR application did not affect anxiety and pain levels in patients undergoing periodontal surgery. More studies are needed to evaluate VR distraction in periodontal surgeries with diverse age samples and video options.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

VR does not affect anxiety and pain levels during gingivectomy and gingivoplasty surgeries in the young adult population. It should be evaluated in older age groups. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06092177.

Patient perceptions and experiences of dental fear of different dental specialties: a mixed-method study

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study was to validate an Urdu translation of Kleinknecht's Dental Fear Survey (DFS) for use in Pakistan and to explore which items contribute the most to the variance in dental fear scores based on patient perceptions and lived experiences during dental care.

METHODOLOGY

This mixed-method study was conducted at Dow Dental Hospital from February 2022 to June 2022. For quantitative analysis, a total of 273 participants were enrolled through convenience sampling. After obtaining signed consent, participants were asked to self-report their dental fear. In-depth interviews with 25 patients displaying moderate to high dental fear were conducted to clarify the elements of dental fear scores through the lens of individual perceptions and experiences.

RESULTS

The prevalence of moderate dental fear was significantly higher among female participants than males. The mean dental fear score was higher among females (39.47 ± 14.23) as compared to males (30.83 ± 10.50). Most of the female participants reported an increase in breathing rate and heartbeat during dental treatment. The highest mean fear score was reported by participants who underwent oral surgical treatment (42.98 ± 14.21), followed by participants who received restorative care (36.20 ± 12.60). Approaching the dentist's office was the significant factor that contributed the most to the variance in dental fear scores. Four themes were generated through the content analysis of the interviews: physical reactions to dental procedures, perceptions and fears about surgical and restorative procedures, and gender and environmental factors in dental fear and interaction with dentists.

CONCLUSION

The Urdu translation of DFS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing dental fears in Pakistan based on the findings of this study. Patients perceive surgical and restorative procedures as unpleasant and threatening. It was noted that "the heart beats faster" and "the breathing rate increases." were the top two physiological responses.

Extraction of high inverted mesiodentes via the labial, palatal and subperiostal intranasal approach：A clinical prospective study

The aim of this study is to provide criteria for the choice of the surgical approach for extraction of high inverted mesiodens. The operation statistics, life quality of postoperative patients, and the operative injury/recovery were compared and analysed. The laser Doppler blood flowmetry, laser speckle contrast imaging, and electric pulp testing were explored to detect the postoperative pulp and gingiva blood supply of adjacent teeth. For the clinician's primary concerns, the surgical time, the volume of osteotomy, and the amount of bleeding in the labial approach group (The p values are 0.0001, <0.0001, and 0.0131, respectively.) and intranasal approach group (All p values were <0.0001.) were significantly less than that in the palatal approach group. However, from the patient's perspective, the postoperative swelling in the labial approach was far more than that in the intranasal approach group (p =0.0044), with unsurprisingly lower satisfaction (p <0.0001). There were no significant differences in pulp and gingival blood supply of adjacent teeth and jaw development. Trauma was manageable in all patients. Within the limitations of the study it seems that extraction of mesiodens by the intranasal approach achieves a delicate balance between reducing surgical trauma and optimizing postoperative recovery.

Should Preoperative Information Before Impacted Third Molar Extraction Be Visual, Verbal, or Both?

PURPOSE

Offering preoperative information is one option to help patients cope with the anxiety associated with oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures. Although this information is commonly delivered verbally, written information, audio recordings, and videos are also recommended. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different preoperative information techniques on patients' anxiety levels before and after third molar tooth extraction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial with parallel groups was performed. 92 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to one of four groups. Group 1 was provided information via a silent video with subtitles. Group 2 was informed via a video with background audio. Group 3 was provided a written information brochure. Group 4, designated as the control group, was informed verbally. The Spielberger state anxiety inventory (STAI-S), dental fear scale (DFS), modified dental anxiety scale (MDAS), and visual analog scale (VAS) were used pre- and postoperatively to evaluate the dental anxiety of patients. The primary predictor variable was the preoperative information method. The primary outcome variables were the scores of STAI-S, DFS, MDAS, and VAS. Gender was also set as a covariate variable. Data analysis was performed with the IBM SPSS Statistics 25.0 software program. Unless otherwise stated, P < .05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 86 patients scheduled for impacted third molar extractions under local anesthesia were included in the study. There was no statistically significant difference among the groups in the mean age (P = .275) or distribution of gender (P = .070). Compared to preoperative values, the postoperative scores of MDAS and VAS were decreased significantly in group 1 (P = .002, P = .003, respectively) and group 3 (P = .007; P = .009, respectively). No statistically significant differences were found between the preoperative and postoperative scores of STAI-S, DFS, MDAS, and VAS in group 2 (P = .300, P = .028, P = .063, P = .038, respectively) and group 4 (P = .127, P = .587, P = .072, P = .016, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that visual or written material, without audio or oral delivery, substantially reduced the anxiety associated with oral and maxillofacial surgery. Therefore, clinicians should preferentially provide information via written methods to control patients' anxiety before impacted third molar surgery.

Evaluating Dental Fear and Anxiety in Pediatric Patients Visiting a Private and a Public Dental Hospital in Lahore, Pakistan

Background One of the biggest hurdles in treating pediatric patients is managing dental fear and anxiety. Some factors that contribute to an increase in dental anxiety are fear of pain, the presence of unknown individuals, a change in the setting of an environment, and separation from parents. Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate dental fear and anxiety in pediatric patients, between the ages of 6 and 12 years, visiting private and public dental hospitals using the Children's Fear Survey Schedule-Dental Subscale (CFSS-DS). Methods A total of 280 children, 140 in a private dental hospital setting and 140 in a public dental hospital setting, were enrolled in this study. The purpose of the study was explained to the accompanying guardian of the patient and written consent was taken. The CFSS-DS was explained verbally in Urdu and the questionnaire was given to guardians alongside the patients which they were asked to fill out following their dental treatment. Result The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed using the unpaired t-test. The highest dental fear mean scores and standard deviation in a private dental hospital were for "choking" (3.25 ± 1.21), "the noise of the dentist drilling" (3.24 ± 1.04), and "having somebody put instruments in your mouth" (3.19 ± 1.06), whereas, for a public dental hospital, the highest fear score was recorded in "choking" (3.17 ± 1.69), "injections" (3.07 ± 1.72), and "people in white uniforms" (1.90 ± 1.21). Conclusion The study showed a higher prevalence of dental fear and anxiety in a private dental setting when compared to a public dental setting. Factors responsible for an increase in dental fear need to be assessed for each patient and then treatment given accordingly.

A randomized controlled trial: evaluation of efficiency and safety of a novel surgical guide in the extraction of deeply impacted supernumerary teeth in the anterior maxilla

Background

Preoperative X-ray and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) are helpful for locating supernumerary teeth, but the images cannot be transferred to the operation. To design a novel surgical guide plate for intraoperative navigation, we transfer the patient's oral CBCT and gypsum model scan data to a computer for analysis. In our study, we evaluate the efficiency and safety of a novel surgical guide plate for the extraction of deeply impacted supernumerary teeth (DIMSNT) in the anterior maxilla.

Methods

Forty patients treated at the Department of School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wenzhou Medical University from March 2019 to December 2020 with DIMSNT (type II/III according to Liu et al.) in the anterior maxilla were randomly divided into 2 groups (20 patients for each group) for the extraction. For group I, a novel surgical guide was selected using CBCT and gypsum model scan. In contrast, for group II who underwent freehand surgery, only the CBCT data was used. The evaluation of operation time, complications, satisfaction score, and the number of cases that underwent extraction immediately after removing the bone were performed to assess the efficiency and safety of this novel surgical plate.

Results

All patients completed the surgery successfully. The guides for group I had a good application effect. Group I's operation time (23.35±5.39 min) was shorter than group II (29.60±9.76 min) (P=0.0194). The average pain degree of group I (1.8±1.08) was significantly less than group II (2.82±1.68) (P<0.05). The average swelling score of group I (34) was significantly less than group II (44.7). Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in group I (8.95±1.05) than in group II (7.90±1.51) (P=0.0152).

Conclusions

The novel surgical guide assisted with DIMSNT extraction have been effective in improving the quality of the surgery, patient satisfaction, and reduce its difficulty and duration. We can construct a surgical guide plate to guide the incision and osteotomy in DIMSNT surgery through the data analysis of DIMSNT on computer, which has a broad application prospect for clinical use.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2100054523.

Mental Health Status before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Patients First Visiting a Psychosomatic Internal Medicine Clinic in Tokyo, Japan

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has aggravated anxiety and depression worldwide, particularly in patients with chronic illnesses and mental disorders. Using validated questionnaires, in this paper, we examine the psychological effects of the pandemic in Japan in detail. The General Mental Health Scale (GHQ), the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) were used to assess mental health, state and trait anxiety, and depression, respectively. The survey was completed during the patients’ first visits to the clinic of Psychosomatic Internal Medicine from November 2018 to April 2021. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare data from 226 participants before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The GHQ total, GHQ subscales of “social dysfunction” and “anxiety and dysphoria”, and state anxiety scores were significantly higher during than before the pandemic. The GHQ total, some GHQ subscales, and state anxiety scores were significantly higher among male than female participants during the pandemic. The GHQ total, some GHQ subscales, CES-D, and state anxiety scores in those aged 10–39 years were significantly higher. Thus, the COVID-19 pandemic may have caused mental health changes in many individuals based on their gender, age, and with time.

Prevalence of depression, anxiety and associated factors among patients with dental disease attending outpatient department in Addis Ababa public hospitals, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a multicenter cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Anxiety and depression are widespread mental health problems in many populations. These problems can be major barriers to dental care and may be led to poor oral health.

OBJECTIVES

To assess prevalence of depression, anxiety and associated factors among patients with dental disease in Addis Ababa public hospitals outpatient department, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2019.

METHODS

An institution based cross sectional study was conducted from May 06 to June 06, 2019 among patients with dental disease attending outpatient department in Addis Ababa city administration public hospitals. Multistage sampling method was used to select study participants. Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale was used to assess anxiety and depression. Face to face interview was used to collect data and the collected data was entered into EPI data version 3.1 and analysis was done using SPSS (Statistical Package Software for Social Sciences) version 20. Bi-variable and multivariable binary logistic regression was carried out. Strength of association was determined using odds ratio with 95% CI (Confidence Interval) and p value less than 0.05 was considered as statistically significant association in the final model.

RESULTS

From the total of 845 participants, 833 were studied with response rate of 98.6%. The median age of the respondent was 32 years with interquartile range (26-41 years). The prevalence of anxiety and depression were found to be 33.9% and 29.2% respectively. Being female [AOR (Adjusted Odds Ratio) 2.70 (95% CI 1.86, 3.89)], tooth extraction [AOR 3.24 (95% CI 2.11, 4.97)], history of repeat visit to dental clinic [AOR 3.21 (95% CI 2.25, 4.58)], chronic disease [AOR 2.95 (95% CI 1.98, 4.38)] and current alcohol use [AOR 3.40 (95% CI 2.28, 5.09)] were significantly associated with anxiety among patients with dental disease. Being female [AOR 2.22 (95% CI 1.53, 3.23)], Elementary educational status [AOR 2.15 (95% CI 1.28, 3.58)], periodontitis [AOR 1.74 (95% CI 1.18, 2.72)],history of repeated visit to dental clinic [AOR 4.07 (95% CI 2.84, 5.84)], current use of alcohol [AOR 4.01 (95% CI 2.68, 6.00)], current cigarette use [AOR 3.15 (95% CI 1.42, 7.00] and irregular tooth brushing [AOR 2.22 (95% CI 1.53, 3.23]were significantly associated with depression among patients with dental disease.

CONCLUSION

Anxiety and depression were high among people with dental disease. Tooth extraction and having chronic disease were significantly associated with anxiety. Elementary educational status, periodontitis, current cigarette smoking and irregular tooth brushing pattern were significant association with depression. History of repeat visit to dental clinic, current alcohol use and female sex were significantly associated with both depression and anxiety. Based on the finding of this study early screening and treating of anxiety and depression, also identifying those associated factors are important at dental clinic.

The Comparison of Dental Anxiety between Patients Treated with Impacted Third Molar Surgery and Conventional Dental Extraction

Background

The aim of the present study is to compare the dental anxiety levels between two outpatient clinics.

Methods

Two hundred and seventy patients treated in two different clinics of minor oral surgery and dental extraction polyclinic in the Dental Faculty of Eskisehir Osmangazi University were included in the study. The impacted third molar surgery group and conventional dental extraction group consisted of 101 and 169 patients, respectively. The Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and Dental Fear Scale (DFS) were used to measure anxiety levels in patients treated in both clinics. Tests were made in an isolated room preoperatively. The differences in anxiety levels according to education status and gender were also evaluated.

Results

The impacted third molar surgery group showed a significant increase in dental anxiety measured with DFS questionnaire (p < 0.05). However, MDAS revealed that there was no difference between anxiety levels between the impacted third molar surgery and conventional dental extraction groups (p > 0.05). There was also no difference in anxiety levels between patients with different education status (p > 0.05). Female patients demonstrated higher levels of anxiety in both MDAS and DFS indexes (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Dental anxiety may be higher in patients treated with impacted third molar surgery compared with conventional dental extraction. The education status of patients may not affect dental anxiety. Female patients may show increased levels of dental anxiety in conventional dental and impacted third molar extractions.

Development and Validation of the Pain and State of Health Inventory (PHI): Application for the Perioperative Setting

Currently, general measurements and evaluations of the quality of recovery are difficult because no adequate measuring tools are available. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a universal tool that assesses patient-relevant criteria-postoperative pain, state of health, and somatic parameters. For this purpose, a pain and state of health inventory (PHI, Schmerz- und Befindlichkeitsinventar (SBI) in German) has been developed. In this study, we describe its development and validation. The development phase was led by an expert panel and was divided into three subphases: determining the conceptual structure, testing the first editions, and adjusting the inventory for a finalized edition. For the purpose of validation, the PHI was filled in by 132 patients who have undergone total knee replacement and was analyzed using principal component analysis. Construct validity was tested by correlating the items with validated questionnaires. The results showed that the inventory can test pain, state of health, and somatic parameters with great construct validity. Furthermore, the inventory is accepted by patients, map changes, and supports to initiate adequate treatment. In conclusion, the PHI is a universal tool that can be used to assess the quality of recovery in the perioperative setting and allow immediate intervention.

Application of a surgical guide in the extraction of impacted mesiodentes: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To explore and evaluate the application of a surgical guide in the extraction of impacted mesiodentes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with impacted mesiodentes approachable from the labial side of the maxilla were randomly divided into three groups. The surgical guide for group I was made using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and dental cast, whereas the surgical guide for group II was only made using CBCT data. Group I and group II were first evaluated to determine whether guide use could accurately locate the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) of the mesiodentes, and the impacted mesiodentes were extracted with the help of the surgical guide. Group III underwent an operation without a guide. For all patients, the preoperative design time, tooth searching time, operation time, complications, and costs were measured.

RESULTS

The guides for group I and group II could locate the CEJ of the mesiodentes accurately, with good application effect during the operation. Group I and group II required additional preoperative design time compared with group III. However, the tooth searching time and operation time in groups I and II were significantly reduced compared with those in group III. Group I and group II showed no intraoperative complications, and two cases in group III showed imprecision during localization. The overall cost for group III was higher than that of group I or group II. But group I and group II required extra visits and costs.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite some limitations, the surgical guide assisted with mesiodentes extraction and can improve the quality of the operation quality as well as reducing its economic burden, difficulty, and duration. Through proper design, we can create a high-quality surgical guide using only CBCT data.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The surgical guide can be used as an important assistive tool in alveolar surgery.

Patient's pre-operative dental anxiety is related to diastolic blood pressure and the need for post-surgical analgesia

In order to study the relationship of the patient’s anxiety level from Corah’s Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) vs different physiological parameters: pre and post-operative blood pressure, and pre and post-operative heart rates, and subsequently, relate the results to the patient’s post-operative anti-inflammatory analgesic need, 185 patients requiring a simple dental extraction were recruited. They filled out the DAS in the waiting room prior to their procedure and once in the examination room, their preoperative blood pressure and heart rate was measured. Once the dental extraction had been completed, their blood pressure and heart rate were measured again. Before leaving the clinic, the patient was given an analgesic form in which they had to indicate whether or not they had required analgesia after the procedure. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) showed statistically significant differences between pre-operative and post-operative (P = 0.001). DAS was related with pre-operative diastolic blood pressure (pre-DBP) (P = 0.001) and post-operative diastolic blood pressure (post-DBP) as well as pre-operative heart rate (pre-HR) (P = 0.027) and post-operative heart rate (post-HR) (P = 0.013). Patients with high levels of DAS tend to take more Ibuprofen 400 mg (P = 0.038). The different levels of anxiety will determine what type of anti-inflammatory analgesia the patient will take, if necessary.

Postoperative online follow-up improves the quality of life of patients who undergo extraction of impacted madibular third molars: a randomized controlled trial

Objective

To evaluate the effect of online follow-up on the quality of life of patients who undergo extraction of impacted mandibular third molars.

Materials and methods

This study enrolled patients with impacted mandibular third molars who were treated at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of the Stomatological Hospital at Southern Medical University and divided them into test and control groups. The test group received an online follow-up on the first, third, and fifth days after tooth extraction, while the control group was not followed up with. Patients in both groups were reexamined on the postoperative seventh day, completing the postoperative symptom severity (PoSSe) scale to comprehensively and quantitatively evaluate their quality of life after tooth extraction. A visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the degree of approval for an online follow-up after tooth extraction by 20 senior doctors (≥ 40 years old) and 20 young doctors (<4 0 years old).

Results

The PoSSe scale scores of the remaining options in the test group were significantly lower than those in the control group. The VAS score of senior doctors for online follow-up was significantly lower than that of young doctors.

Conclusions

A postoperative online follow-up effectively improved the quality of life of patients who underwent extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. Compared with senior doctors, young doctors were more likely to approve an online follow-up after tooth extraction.

Clinical relevance

Online medical care can be considered as an auxiliary tool to improve the effect of oral treatment.

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Objectif:

La santé bucco-dentaire des patients en psychiatrie est problématique, puisque le recours au chirurgien-dentiste demeure inférieur de 25 % à la population générale. En partant de ce postulat, nous avons souhaité comprendre en quoi l’anxiété et la douleur du patient peuvent impacter la prise en charge bucco-dentaire et le bon déroulement des soins.

Méthode:

Cette étude a été menée sur 100 patients hospitalisés en psychiatrie. Grâce à différentes échelles, nous avons évalué leur niveau d’anxiété et de douleur, mais aussi leur coopération aux soins.

Résultats:

L’anxiété ne constitue pas un frein à la prise en charge, et diminue significativement après les soins. Le comportement durant les soins bucco-dentaires des patients hospitalisés en psychiatrie semble similaire à celui de la population générale.

Conclusion:

Notre étude permet de mieux appréhender les soins dentaires en psychiatrie et devrait contribuer à placer les soins dentaires au centre de la prise en charge somatique en psychiatrie.

Impact of audiovisual information on anxiety and fear in patients undergoing dental implant treatment

BACKGROUND

Few studies have reported the impact of audiovisual implant surgery information on anxiety and fear.

PURPOSE

To investigate the impact of audiovisual information on anxiety and fear in patients undergoing dental implant treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 300 patients due to undergo surgery to place a single implant. An interview topic guide and the Krantz Health Opinion Survey (KHOS) survey were used to assess the information patients already had about treatment and how much information they were seeking. Afterwards were randomized into two groups (n = 150): group 1 (verbal information) and group 2 (audiovisual information). Before surgery, anxiety and fear were assessed using State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Modified Corah Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), and Dental Fear Scale (DFS) scales. After treatment, all patients described their satisfaction with the information received with a VAS.

RESULTS

Before receiving information, both groups were homogenous in their knowledge of the implant procedure (P = .825) and the quantity of information sought (KHOS; P = .080). After receiving information, group 2 patients presented more anxiety and fear than group 1 (STAI-State, STAI-Treat, MDAS, DFS; P < .001). After surgery, both groups were equally satisfied with the information received and the need for additional information (P = .689; P = .199, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Audiovisual information generated greater anxiety and fear than conventional verbal information in patients undergoing implant surgery.

Effect of Verbal and Written Information and Previous Surgical Experience on Anxiety During Third Molar Extraction

PURPOSE

Third molar extraction is a quite common surgical procedure that causes dental anxiety. This procedure affects patients physiologically and mentally. The type of information provided to patients is important to determine the level of their anxiety regarding the surgical procedure. Patients' experience is also a major determinant of dental anxiety. It is subjective and perceived only by the patient. Questionnaires are tools used to determine and assess patient anxiety. The present study evaluated the effect of verbal and written information and the previous surgical experience of patients on their anxiety before and after third molar extraction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 66 patients who had been admitted for third molar extraction under local anesthesia were included. The patients were divided into 3 groups: group 1 was given verbal information, group 2 was given written information, and group 3 had had previous surgical experience. The Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S), Dental Fear Scale (DFS), Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), and visual analog scale (VAS) were used pre- and postoperatively to evaluate dental anxiety.

RESULTS

The MDAS and VAS scores of all patients had decreased postoperatively (P = .012 and P < .001, respectively). The postoperative MDAS and VAS scores were lower than the preoperative scores in women (P = .007 and P < .001, respectively). The postoperative MDAS (P = .014 and P = .004, respectively) and VAS (P < .001 and P = .002) scores had decreased compared with the preoperative scores in groups 2 and 3. The preoperative and postoperative MDAS and VAS scores were similar in group 1. In addition, the preoperative and postoperative STAI-S and DFS scores were similar in all groups.

CONCLUSIONS

All patients should be adequately informed about the third molar extraction procedure, even if they have previous experience. Providing detailed information reduced the postoperative anxiety of the patients.

The potential of heart rate variability for exploring dental anxiety in mandibular third molar surgery

An objective method to recognize patient psychology using heart rate variability (HRV) has recently been developed and is increasingly being used in medical practice. This study compared the potential of this new method with the use of conventional surveys measuring anxiety levels in patients undergoing impacted third molar (ITM) surgery. Patient anxiety was examined before treatment in 64 adults who required ITM surgery, using two methods: measurement of HRV and conventional questionnaire surveys (state section of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) and Dental Fear Survey (DFS)). Both methods were assessed for their respective abilities to determine the impact of personal background, the amount of information provided, and the surgical procedure on patient psychology. Questionnaires and HRV yielded the same finding: dental experience was the single background factor that correlated with patient anxiety; the other factors remain unclear. The STAI-S showed a significant relationship between the information provided to the patient and their anxiety level, while the DFS and HRV did not. In addition, HRV demonstrated its ability to assess the effects of the surgical procedure on patient psychology. HRV demonstrated great potential as an objective method for evaluating patient stress, especially for providing real-time information on the patient's status.

Assessment of pre and postoperative anxiety in patients undergoing ambulatory oral surgery in primary care

Background

To analyze the pre- and postoperative anxiety level in patients undergoing ambulatory oral surgery (AOS) in a primary healthcare center (PHC).

Material and Methods

Prospective and descriptive clinical study on 45 patients who underwent AOS procedures in the dental clinic of a public PHC of Spain between April and September 2015. Anxiety analysis was carried out with pre- and postoperative anxiety-state (STAI-S), anxiety-trait (STAI-T) and dental anxiety (MDAS) questionnaires. A descriptive, inferential and binary logistic regression analysis were performed for the variables age, sex, educational level, previous experience of oral treatment, type of oral surgery, degree of third molar impaction, surgical time, intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, and pain score with a visual analogue scale (VAS).

Results

The majority were female (57.8%) with a mean age of 33.5+9.6 years. The most frequent procedure was the lower third molar removal (82.2%). The mean pain score on the VAS was 1.6+1.8. The incidence of complications was low (7.8%). There was a statistically significant association between post- and preoperative anxiety (r=0.56, p<0.001) and a correlation between pain score and postoperative anxiety (Rho= -0.35, p=0.02). The likelihood of postoperative anxiety was related to preoperative anxiety (OR=1.3, p=0.03).

Conclusions

AOS in a HPC is safe and should be more encouraged in the public primary care. The emotional impact on users was relatively low, highlighting that the preoperative anxiety levels were higher than the postoperative ones. Psychological factors related to pre- and postoperative anxiety should be considered in the AOS carried out in PC.

Key words:Anxiety, oral surgery, ambulatory surgery, primary care, STAI scale, postoperative pain.

[Comparison between propofol and propofol-remifentanil sedation under target-controlled infusion for impacted supernumerary teeth extraction surgery for children]

Objective The aim of this study is to compare sedation titrated under target-controlled infusion of propofol and propofol-remifentanil for impacted supernumerary teeth extraction surgery for children. Methods A total of 60 children with anterior maxillary region impacted supernumerary teeth extraction surgery were divided randomly into two groups, namely, propofol group (group P, n=30) and propofol-remifentanil group (group PR, n=30). In group P, a titrated infusion of propofol was started until the modified observer's assessment of alertness/sedation (OAA/S) scale reached level 3 before the actual surgery. In group PR, a remifentanil infusion with a target plasma concentration of 1 ng·mL⁻¹ was started until the operation was finished. A titrated infusion of propofol was also started until the modified OAA/S score reached level 3 before the actual surgery. The Houpt behavior scale was adopted to evaluate the cooperation of each patient in both groups. The heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxyhemoglobin saturation, and Narcotrend index, complications, adverse reactions and propofol infusion of all patients were recorded during the operation. Results The Houpt behavior scales in group PR were better than those in group P (P<0.05). The oxyhemoglobin saturation and respiratory rate in group PR were lower than that in group P (P<0.05). The heart rate, blood pressure and NI in two groups were no significant difference (P>0.05). The incidence of respiratory depression and anterograde amnesia in group PR were higher than that in group P (P<0.05). Conclusion Sedation titrated under the target-controlled infusion of propofol and that titrated under propofol-remifentanil for impacted supernumerary teeth extraction surgery for children are safe. The sedation titrated under target-controlled infusion of propofol-remifentanil is better than sedation by propofol when inhaling oxygen.

Scales used to rate adult patients' psycho-emotional status in tooth extraction procedures: a systematic review

The aim of this study was to review scales used to assess anxiety, stress, and pain in dental patients undergoing a tooth extraction procedure and to propose a novel psycho-emotional rating scale based on the relevant literature and our own experience. An electronic literature search was conducted of the National Library of Medicine database MEDLINE (Ovid) and EMBASE databases between January 2005 and April 2016. Sequential screening at the title/abstract and full-text levels was performed. The review included all human prospective or retrospective follow-up studies and clinical trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and case series that demonstrated at least one scale used to measure tooth extraction anxiety, stress, or pain. The search resulted in 32 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. None of the studies were found to be suitable in evaluating patient's stress, pain, and fear at once. Also, no scales were found that included both the doctor's and the patient's rating. In a few studies, vital signs as psycho-emotional status indicators were rated. Guidelines for a suitable questionnaire that could be used for rating the psycho-emotional status of patients undergoing tooth extraction are listed in the present research. Further studies are required for verification and validation of offered scale.

Is there a relation between dental anxiety, fear and general psychological status?

Background

Dental anxiety is a widespread problem in many populations. This problem can be a barrier to dental care and may lead to poor oral health. Dental anxiety may be related to psychological status.

Aims

The aim of the present study was to assess the levels of dental anxiety, dental fear, Beck Depression, and state-trait anxiety according to age, gender and education level in patients at the periodontology clinic in the Diyarbakır Mouth and Dental Health Center.

Study Design

A total of 231 patients (115 males, 116 females) filled out dental fear scale (DFS), dental anxiety scale (DAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), state-trait anxiety inventory-state (STAI-S), and state-trait anxiety inventory–trait (STAI-T) questionnaires, and evaluations of DFS, DAS, BDI, STAI-S, and STAI-T were conducted according to age, gender, and education level.

Results

The mean DFS, DAS, BDI, STAI-T, and STAI –S were 45.64, 9.15, 13.16, 38.90, and 40.18, respectively. There was a significant association among DFS, DAS, BDI, STAI-S, and STAI-T (p < 0.05). These surveys scores were significantly higher in females than males (p < 0.05). The results of this study indicated that gender age and education level have important effects on DFS, DAS, BDI, STAI-S, and STAI-T (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Dental anxiety and dental fear were found to be related to psychological status (BDI, STAI-S, and STAI-T) over time. There are some patients with unaddressed psychological distress.

Evaluating the Relationship of Dental Fear with Dental Health Status and Awareness

INTRODUCTION

Dental fear is one of the most common problems in dentistry, for both the patient and for the dentist. This issue can have an important effect on an individual's dental health.

AIM

The aim of this paper was to report on the prevalence of dental anxiety and to explore if high levels of anxiety are associated with sociodemographic factors, oral health status, and level of oral health awareness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The sample for this cross-sectional study included 294 patients (154 males and 140 females). All participants filled out a Dental Fear Survey (DFS) to evaluate their level of dental fear. Gender, age, education level, socioeconomic status and oral health awareness were also noted. Oral health behaviors and oral health awareness levels were investigated using seven questions. Also, the periodontal status of all participants was evaluated using the Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN). Differences between different subgroups were tested using the chi-square test.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant difference between the DFS groups with regard to sociodemographic data. Women had significantly higher scores than men, and young patients had significantly higher scores than others. Patients with low education levels and low socioeconomic status had high DFS scores. Periodontal status was better in groups that had scores in the low and moderate ranges compared to groups that had high scores on the DFS. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups of DFS and CPITN (p<0.05). Patients with low and moderate levels of DFS answered the oral health knowledge questions correctly. There was a statistically significant difference between the DFS groups based on correct answers to the oral health knowledge questions (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The elimination of dental fear is very important and should be treated according to a patient-centered assessment. These individuals were informed about the dental treatment procedure so their prejudices were eliminated. Patients with a high level of dental fear may be given psychiatric support for comfortable treatment procedure.

Pulsed versus continuous wave CO2 laser excisions of 100 oral fibrous hyperplasias: a randomized controlled clinical and histopathological study

BACKGROUND

In experimental animal studies, pulsing the CO2 laser beam has been shown to reduce the thermal damage zone of excised oral mucosal tissue. However, there is still controversy over whether this is borne out under clinical conditions.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the outcome following excisional biopsies of fibrous hyperplasias using a pulsed (cf) versus a continuous wave (cw) CO2 laser mode regarding the thermal damage zone, duration of surgeries, intra- and postoperative complications, postoperative pain sensation, scarring and/or relapse during the initial 6 months.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred Swiss-resident patients with a fibrous hyperplasia in their buccal mucosa were randomly assigned to the cw mode (5 W) or the cf mode (140 Hz, 400 microseconds, 33 mJ, 4.62 W) group. All excisions were performed by one single oral surgeon. Postoperative pain (2 weeks) was recorded by visual analogue scale (VAS; ranging from 0 to 100). Intake of analgesics and postoperative complications were recorded in a standardized study form. The maximum width of the collateral thermal damage zone was measured (µm) in excision specimens by one pathologist. Intraoral photographs at 6-month follow-up examinations were evaluated regarding scarring (yes/no).

RESULTS

Median duration of the excision was 65 seconds in the cw and 81 seconds in the cf group (P = 0.13). Intraoperative bleeding occurred in 16.3% of the patients in the cw and 17.7% of the cf group. The median value of the thermal damage zone was 161(±228) μm in the cw and 152(± 105) μm in the cf group (P = 0.68). The reported postoperative complications included swelling in 19% and minor bleeding in 6% without significant differences between the two laser modes. When comparing each day separately or the combined mean VAS scores of both groups between Days 1-3, 1-7, and 1-15, there were no significant differences. However, more patients of the cw group (25%) took analgesics than patients of the cf group (9.8%) resulting in a borderline significance (P = 0.04). Scarring at the excision site was found in 50.6% of 77 patients after 6 months, and more scars were identified in cases treated with the cf mode (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Excision of fibrous hyperplasias performed with a CO2 laser demonstrated a good clinical outcome and long-term predictability with a low risk of recurrence regardless of the laser mode (cf or cw) used. Scarring after 6 months was only seen in 50.6% of the cases and was slightly more frequent in the cf mode group. Based on the findings of the present study, a safety border of 1 mm appears sufficient for both laser modes especially when performing a biopsy of a suspicious soft tissue lesion to ensure a proper histopathological examination.