Abstract

 While established risk factors include diet, oral hygiene, and genetics, emerging research suggests a link between psychological factors, such as dental anxiety, and physiological markers, like salivary cortisol, in the development and progression of dental caries. This cross-sectional study sought to explore the associations among salivary cortisol levels, dental anxiety, and dental caries in pediatric patients. A diverse cohort of children was examined, and data was collected through clinical assessments and salivary cortisol measurements. The findings reveal a significant relationship between elevated salivary cortisol levels and increased dental anxiety in children, as well as a connection between dental anxiety and the presence and severity of dental caries. This case report aims to explore the correlation between dental anxiety and the prevalence of dental caries in children. Dental anxiety is a common phenomenon that can significantly affect a child’s oral health and well-being. The case presented here highlights the challenges in managing dental anxiety and its potential consequences on oral health, focusing on dental caries as a primary outcome. The report also discusses strategies for early intervention and preventive measures to mitigate the impact of dental anxiety on children’s dental health.