Assessment of dental pain and its association with dental anxiety and oral health-related quality of life

Acta Odontol Scand. 2026 Mar 27;85:141-150. doi: 10.2340/aos.v85.45322.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Dental anxiety (DA) and dental pain are closely interrelated. Anxiety often leads to an exaggerated perception of pain, while the experience of pain can further intensify anxiety, creating a vicious cycle. This cycle can significantly have an effect on individual's oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Therefore, it is essential to implement both clinical and psychological interventions to effectively manage DA.

AIM: The aim of this study is to assess the level of dental pain and its association with DA and OHRQoL among patients attending dental treatment.

METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study involving 805 participants was conducted using consecutive sampling. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, dental health status, and self-rated health. The participants' dental pain and DA were assessed using a 100-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS), the Dental Fear Survey (DFS), and the Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS). Descriptive analyses were performed, followed by logistic regression to identify determinants of Oral Impacts on Daily Performance (OIDP).

RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 805 participants, comprising 69.7% males and 30.3% females. Most participants were aged between 31 and 50 years (46.9%). The study's findings revealed no significant differences in dental pain prevalence by gender, age, or education level. However, participants with dental pain reported greater difficulties in daily activities, particularly in eating and social interactions. Significant mean differences were observed in DA (P < 0.001) and DFS (P = 0.009), with individuals experiencing dental pain reporting higher mean scores for DA (7.74 vs. 7.10) and DFS (37.56 vs. 35.55). Logistic regression identified decayed teeth [OR = 1.48 (95% CI: 1.06, 2.05), p = 0.020] and higher dental pain levels [OR = 6.08 (95% CI: 4.39, 8.41), p < 0.001] as factors significantly associated with OIDP.

CONCLUSION: The study shows a significant association between dental pain and a poor OHRQoL. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing dental health issues to improve overall well-being and quality of life among affected individuals.

PMID:41891556 | DOI:10.2340/aos.v85.45322