Pain Perception and Anxiety During Scaling in Periodontally Healthy Subjects

Background: Dental pain, anxiety, and fear may result in avoiding dental treatment. In this study, we aimed to evaluate patients' pain perception during scaling and its relationship with dental anxiety. Methods: One hundred thirteen patients (72 women and 41 men; mean age, 35.59 ± 9.28 years) participated. Pain levels after scaling were assessed with a visual analog scale (VAS) and an anxiety questionnaire consisting of seven questions, each with five possible answers. Results: The patients were asked to indicate their pain level on a 100‐mm VAS, and the mean VAS score was 19.91 ± 17.76 mm. No age and gender differences with regard to pain perception were found. VAS scores were significantly higher in non‐smokers (P