Further evidence for the reliability and validity of the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale

Abstract

Data from three countries has supported the psychometric properties of this modified and brief dental anxiety scale.

Does completing a dental anxiety questionnaire increase anxiety? A randomised controlled trial with adults in general dental practice

“…Reliability for this measure was also favourable (internal consistency = 0.89; test-retest = 0.82). 9,10 A short version of Speilberger's State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) was used. 11 The STAI-S is a self-report measure designed to assess patient state anxiety at the time of completion.…”

Estimating the need for dental sedation. 2. Using IOSN as a health needs assessment tool

“…However, this approach concentrates on only one domain of treatment need -that of anxiety or fear. [13][14][15][16] Recent work on the development of sedation needs assessment undertaken by the authors suggests that there are three domains to defining sedation need: By measuring only a single domain, for example anxiety, there is a risk that the need for sedation could be underestimated. Two examples would include the individual who is not anxious but whose medical condition indicates that they would, for certain procedures, receive care more effectively and/or safely with the benefit of conscious sedation.…”

Investigation of inhalational conscious sedation as a tool for reducing anxiety in adults undergoing exodontia

“…As well as giving a good indication of dental anxiety levels it is also able to identify specific problem areas for patients, such as the drill or injections. 8,[12][13][14] The aim of this investigation was to determine whether patients' dental anxiety levels reduce after exodontia carried out under IHS with LA. If anxiety is reduced with the use of IHS to support exodontia it may have significant implications for the management of individuals undergoing oral surgery and could result in less anxiety before future dental procedures.…”