Managing Pediatric Dental Anxiety: A Narrative Review of Psychosocial and Clinical Determinants
Keywords:
Pediatric Dental Anxiety, Non-Pharmacological Intervention, Behavioral Management, Sensory Adaptation, Parental Influence, Dental Fear, Oral Health DisparitiesAbstract
Dental anxiety in children presents a persistent challenge in pediatric dentistry, affecting both oral health outcomes and access to care. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the psychosocial, clinical, and systemic factors contributing to pediatric dental anxiety, while identifying effective non-pharmacological interventions. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, targeting peer-reviewed studies published in the last 10 to 15 years. Selection criteria emphasized empirical studies involving children aged 0 to 18, with a focus on behavioral traits, parental influences, clinical procedures, and environmental design.
The review identified parental anxiety, previous traumatic experiences, and neurodiverse conditions as critical psychosocial determinants. Clinical elements, including dentist attire, communication style, and clinic aesthetics, were also found to significantly affect anxiety levels. Non-pharmacological strategies such as audiovisual distraction, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and the Tell-Show-Do method demonstrated high efficacy in managing dental fear. Furthermore, systemic factors such as access to pediatric specialists, policy integration, and school-based education play pivotal roles in shaping care outcomes. The evidence underscores the necessity for multi-level interventions involving parents, clinicians, and policymakers.
In conclusion, addressing pediatric dental anxiety requires holistic strategies that integrate behavioral techniques, environmental adaptations, and institutional support. Future research should prioritize culturally sensitive, scalable interventions and longitudinal evaluations to ensure equitable, long-term improvements in pediatric oral healthcare.
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