385 - Cross-Cultural Assessment of Caregiver Attitudes on Pediatric Dental Anxiety Aids

Abstract:

Purpose: To investigate the perceived effectiveness of dental anxiety (DA) aids and understand cultural influences among caregivers at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM). While American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) guidelines offer clinical best practices, they often overlook the specific role of cultural perceptions in behavior management.

Methods: In this IRB-approved cross-sectional study, a Qualtrics™ survey was administered to caregivers of children aged 3–17. To ensure inclusivity, the study utilized interpretation carts and validated surveys in English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese. Content and face validity were confirmed by dental faculty and caregivers.

Results: AxiUm records from 2021 showed that 40% of TUSDM’s pediatric patients were multi-racial or non-white. Data from 2025 (n=91, 43% non-English speaking) revealed that 33% of pediatric patients had a history of DA. Notably, 61% of caregivers believe it is essential for dentists to consider cultural practices, and 60% desire more education regarding DA techniques used at TUSDM. Statistical analysis found significant correlations between a child’s race and DA history (P=.03), and between age and positive responses to the “Ask-Tell-Ask” technique (P=.01).

Conclusions: Dental anxiety remains a significant barrier to oral health care. With growing societal diversity, providers must select DA techniques while considering cultural and ethnic factors. By addressing language barriers and caregiver perceptions, this study provides critical insights into culturally sensitive management. These findings will help practitioners better utilize DA techniques, ultimately improving oral health outcomes for diverse pediatric populations through more personalized, culturally informed dental care.

***First Choice for Presentation***


Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by Tufts Department of Research Administration, Tufts Department of Pediatrics and Tufts Springboard Grant (#D740824)