# Patients' Perceptions of Sound and Noise Dimensions in the Dental Clinic Soundscape
###### Abstract
To add more, a study assessing the effect of music therapy on dental anxiety levels of patients undergoing extractions found that music reduced fear, stress, and anxiety and was a form of meditation and relaxation [20]. Furthermore, the choice of music genre significantly affects anxiety and pain reduction, as studies indicate these effects are not exclusive to any specific music type [4]. Interestingly, in a specific study, 58% of respondents favored classical music in the healthcare setting [23]. Ideally, music in dental settings should align with patients' personal musical preferences, which are deeply rooted and influential [6]. Patient preferences and past musical experiences are then crucial factors in the success of any health intervention [24], including dental procedures. To be effective, though, music should resonate with listeners in terms of culture, genre, mood, and era [25]. Dental professionals should also be mindful not to elicit excessive emotions or irritation, as music's evocative nature can impact relaxation for them too [19]. In a relevant study, it was reported that music is most effective when the musical program is selected by the patient [26]. In another study, it was found that music chosen by the patient offers the best results in healthcare settings [27]. But of course, there is a difference between passive music listening, often administered by medical professionals, and active music therapy, where trained music therapists use music creatively to promote and sustain health and well-being [28]. Finally, it is reported that music therapy programs can benefit people of all ages and abilities, irrespective of their musical background or skill [6; 29]. The selection of music types in diverse healthcare settings, including dental offices, is moreover contingent upon several factors, notably personal preferences, age, emotional associations, familiarity, and the overall dental office atmosphere and culture. Individuals exhibit unique musical tastes shaped by personal experiences, emotions, and cultural backgrounds, with certain types eliciting positive emotions or inducing relaxation [30]. Age also plays a pivotal role, as music preferences often vary among different generations; younger patients may gravitate towards contemporary genres, while older patients may lean towards classical or folk music [31; 32]. Music's ability to evoke emotions and establish a specific atmosphere is crucial in dental settings, where choosing music that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety contributes to a more comfortable environment for patients [6]. The element of familiarity is significant, with patients often preferring music they know well, fostering a sense of comfort and security rooted in personal experiences or cultural backgrounds [33]. Moreover, the dental office atmosphere itself can influence preferences, with instrumental or soothing-tempo music being preferable, contributing to a calm and focused ambiance during appointments [6]. It seems that recognizing and accommodating these diverse music preferences based on various factors can significantly enhance the overall comfort and relaxation of dental patients. The principal objective of this study was to investigate the current sound preferences of dental patients before and during dental treatment, encompassing ambient sounds like background music, staff-patient interactions, operation of dental equipment, and other environmental noises. Additionally, the research aimed to identify and understand noise obstacles within dental offices, considering both dental and non-dental sources while also evaluating the psychological impact of varying noise levels on patients during their dental appointments. Additionally, the investigation assessed the impact of music on anxiety reduction and analyzed the influence of music on patient outcomes, encompassing anxiety levels, pain reduction, and overall satisfaction. It also aimed to compare the effectiveness of patient-selected music versus music administered by dental professionals in reducing anxiety.