243 - Caregiver Behaviors/Beliefs Associated with Dental Anxiety in Pediatric Patients

Purpose: The purpose of the current study is to explore possible associations between caregiver attitudes/behaviors surrounding dental healthcare and reported anxiety by the caregivers’ children within BronxCare Health System’s pediatric dental population. By drawing associations between attitudes/behaviors associated with different levels of reported anxiety in the pediatric dental population, the current research project hopes to inform future interventions that may improve dental experiences and outcomes for the pediatric patient. 

Methods: The caregivers of pediatric dental patients aged 6-14 years old presenting for comprehensive exam, routine dental care, or emergency dental care, were recruited for this study over 6 months. Eligible survey participants were directed to QR codes posted throughout the dental clinic, which allowed the caregiver to complete anonymous surveys on an encrypted service. The survey collected information regarding caregiver demographics, caregiver’s attitudes/beliefs/behaviors regarding dental care usage, any caregiver interactions with pediatric patients prior to dental appointments in preparation for the visit, as well as self-reported assessment of their child’s pre-treatment anxiety associated with the dental visit. A Spanish version of the survey was provided to accommodate for a large Spanish-speaking population in the Bronx, NY. Following data collection, quantitative statistical analysis of the data was conducted. 

Results: Results pending. All statistical analyses will be conducted after the 6-month data collection period. 

Conclusion: Conclusions pending. The researchers hope that the results will provide a better understanding. 


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