Abstract: Dental anxiety (DA) negatively affects patients� oral and overall health. This study explored\nattitudes and clinical practices of licensed Ohio general dentists who treat patients with DA. Methods:\nAn anonymous self-administered mail survey was sent to 500 general dentists licensed and practicing\nin Ohio. Responses to 21 pre-coded questions were analyzed. Frequencies were examined; cross-tabs,\nChi-Square, and Fischer�s Exact Test were calculated for statements according to dentists� gender.\nAlpha was set at p = 0.05. Results: Nearly all respondents treated anxious patients; males were more\nlikely to find it challenging than females. Dentists were most familiar with distraction, although\nhalf found nitrous oxide to be an effective tool. Female dentists were more likely than males to be\nfamiliar with anxiolytics and find them effective. Conclusion: Overall, Ohio general dentists are\nmost familiar with using distraction and nitrous oxide during appointments for anxious patients.\nGender differences exist in attitudes towards anxiolytic use for patients with DA. Practice Implications:\nBy identifying techniques that are comfortable for patient and practitioner, oral health disparities\nassociated with DA may be reduced.
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