| The purpose of this study was to identify patients’ perspectives on factors that impact anxiety in a dental practice setting. A qualitative, descriptive case study research design was used to identify patients’ perspectives on factors that impact anxiety in a dental practice setting. An interview guide that focused on obtaining information about the etiology, contributing factors, management strategies, and experiences of dental anxiety (DA) was used for the semi-structured interviews which were recorded by Zoom. The qualitative responses were coded using the qualitative research analytic platform Dedoose. Twenty-two individuals participated in this study. Seven themes emerged including Avoidance, Supportive Behaviors, Confidence in Provider, Diversion, Enduring, Adaptations, and Benevolence. Participants in this study expressed various coping mechanisms and management strategies to alleviate the symptoms of DA. Multiple opportunities exist for increasing patient-provider trust and patient comfort to reduce DA, and ultimately improve the oral health status of those with DA. |