Dental anxiety (DA) and generalized anxiety (GA) significantly impact patients' quality of life, influencing their social interactions, job performance, self-esteem, self-confidence, and overall oral health. Previous literature showed that females have a higher probability of experiencing psychological burdens compared with males. This study aimed to examine the correlation between GA and DA among females. This is a cross-sectional study that utilized the online survey study design using Qualtrics software in Jordan and Saudi Arabia in 2024. The convenience sampling technique was employed in this research. The correlation between GA and DA scores was examined using the Pearson correlation coefficient test. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of severe DA. A total of 1858 females were involved in this study. The prevalence of severe anxiety (a total score of 15 and above) among the study sample was 24.2%. The mean DA score among the study participants was 12.6 (standard deviation = 5.1) out of 25. Around 38.2% of the study sample showed moderate level of DA. A total of 16.0% of the study sample showed high level of DA. A moderately positive correlation was identified between Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 score and Modified Dental Anxiety Scale score (r = 0.270; 95% confidence interval = 0.226-0.316; P value < .001). Females with a monthly income of 1500 to 2000 dollars were at a lower likelihood of experiencing severe DA level (P < .05). DA and GA were significant burdens among female study samples in Saudi Arabia and Jordan. Anxiety-minimizing and coping techniques can be considered by dentists while dealing with female patients. Educational campaigns should promote the importance of oral health and decrease public fear of dental visits.
Keywords: anxiety, dental anxiety, dental phobia, generalized anxiety
Medicine
Journal Article
English
41961701
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