The Impact of Childhood Sexual Abuse on Women's Dental Experiences

ABSTRACT

One hundred and thirty-two women with a history of sexual abuse and 49 reporting no such history were compared, using a pilot-tested Dental Experiences Questionnaire. A history of abuse, especially severity of abuse, was found to be predictive of different patterns in making and keeping dental appointments; stress-related dental problems; and PTSD-type symptoms while at the dentist. Physical proximity, tactile, and kinesthetic experiences were evocative and therefore particularly discomfitting. Strategies that increased dental patients' sense of control, provided a feeling of protection or safety, and allowed for empowerment were positively endorsed, especially by sexual abuse survivors.