Structured interviews were undertaken with one hundred 18-30-year-old females, seeking their views on dental care. Almost all regarded their own past experience as affecting their general level of dental anxiety. Over half were anxious about visiting the dentist and almost all of these were anxious before entering the surgery. The Anxious emphasized the negative features in dental care and the practice environment whereas the Non-anxious concentrated on positive features, particularly their relationship with the dentist. Many spontaneously commented that their attitudes had been improved by changing dentists, although some still remained anxious. 'Worst visits' had frequently occurred early in their lives. Appearance was of prime importance; function was ignored. Interviewees believed that visiting the dentist would be eased by lower costs, more convenient hours, better surroundings in the practice and improved techniques to make dentistry more comfortable.
Adolescent Adult