Sociodemographic characteristics associated with dental anxiety in a high andean population

Abstract

Objective: To identify the association between sociodemographic characteristics and dental anxiety in the young and adult population of the Huanuara district, Tacna, during the year 2023. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study of a relational type was conducted. The study population was composed of the entire young and adult population residing in the district. A sample of 115 people was obtained. The survey technique was used, applying a data form and the Modified Dental Anxiety Questionnaire (MDAS) to assess the level of dental anxiety. Results: 77.4% of the participants presented dental anxiety to some degree. A statistically significant association was found between dental anxiety and the variables sex (p < 0.027), age (p < 0.036), level of education (p < 0.00), and employment status (p < 0.014). However, no significant association was observed with marital status (p > 0.118). Conclusions: This research provides evidence of a significant association between dental anxiety and the sociodemographic characteristics of sex, age, level of education, and employment status. No significant association was observed with marital status.