Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between dental anxiety, salivary cortisol, and salivary Alpha Amylase (sAA) levels in chronic Endodontic pain. Furthermore, the aim was to look into individual differences such as age, race, gender, any existing pain, or traumatic dental experience and their effect on dental anxiety.
Materials &Methods: This study followed a cross-sectional design and included a convenience sample of 46. Every patient was asked to complete the Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) and a basic demographic/dental history questionnaire. A saliva sample, utilizing the spitting method, was then collected in sterile containers. Samples were analyzed for salivary cortisol and sAA levels by Salimetrics.
Results: Significant associations were observed between DAS scores and presence of pain and history of traumatic dental experience. However, significant correlations were observed between DAS, cortisol, and sAA levels. Our study reconfirms that dental anxiety is associated with presence of pain and a history of traumatic dental experience.
Conclusion: Based on the results of our study, we can conclude that presence of pain and any history of traumatic dental experience are associated with patients’ dental anxiety level.
Clinical Significance: Dentists need to be trained in anxiety management and communication techniques, this consideration will help in development of specialist postgraduates courses for dentists in management of dental anxiety. Such initiatives allow interested dentists to gain more confidence, more experience and skills in this specialized in the field of dentistry.
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The Annals of Medical and Health Sciences Research is a monthly multidisciplinary medical journal.