Impact of Dental Anxiety on Oral Health QOL among Dental Patients: Exploring Mediating Effect of Cynical Hostility

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the dental anxiety predicting poor oral health quality of life (OH QOL) and explore mediating effects of cynical hostility among dental patients. Using the survey questionnaire methodology, the study further analyzed the demographic differences (age, gender) among dental patients. The researchers wanted to see if there was a link between dental anxiety and oral health quality of life (QOL) as well as cynical hostility in a group of dental patients. The Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS), Cynical Distrust Scale (CDS), and Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) were all completed by 353 dental patients. Additionally, demographic information was gathered.  Regression analysis shows that dental anxiety results in poor oral health QOL (p<.05). Mediation analysis via Hayes process macro showed cynical distrust impact as a mediator in a relationship between dental anxiety and oral health QOL was significant. The mediation found that cynical hostility was a significant factor in the link between dental anxiety and oral health quality of life. Results of the study have major implications in domain of oral health and can be used in health programs to improve the quality of treatment.