Final Answer:
Dental anxiety can stem from unpleasant past experiences and learned fears from parents, contributing to its multifaceted nature. Therefore the correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dental anxiety can stem from various factors, and it's often a combination of reasons. Individuals might develop anxiety due to unpleasant experiences during dental procedures in the past (a), which can create a fear response to future visits. Additionally, learned behaviors, such as observing a parent's dental fear (b), can contribute significantly to a person's own anxiety toward dental appointments. Hence, the most comprehensive answer is (c), encompassing both unpleasant past experiences and learned fears from parents, acknowledging that dental anxiety can indeed be attributed to all the options listed.
The experience of dental anxiety is often multifaceted. Unpleasant past encounters with dental procedures can create a negative association, triggering anxiety responses when faced with similar situations in the future. Moreover, learning from a parent's fear can influence an individual's perception of dental visits, instigating a sense of apprehension or fear even in the absence of personal negative experiences. These factors, in combination or separately, contribute to the development and perpetuation of dental anxiety, impacting an individual's willingness to seek dental care and their overall oral health.
Recognizing that dental anxiety is often influenced by multiple factors is crucial in addressing and mitigating it. Dental professionals can employ various strategies, such as providing a supportive environment, clear communication, and techniques like relaxation or distraction, to help individuals cope with their anxiety and improve their dental experiences. Therefore the correct option is c.