Fear and Anxiety in Dentistry

Abstract

Within the profession of dentistry, it has become more and more evident that the relationship a dentist has with his or her patients is equally as important as the actual medical treatment of diseases and disorders. It is no secret that there is a vast percentage of the general population that feel a sense of fear and anxiety when visiting a dental practitioner. This results in patients avoiding appointments with their dentists, sometimes to the extent of not visiting a dental practice for decades. As a consequence of this, necessary treatment cannot be carried out and the conditions of the oral cavity, as well as other surrounding structures deteriorates drastically. This vicious cycle, without a doubt, leads to cumulative anxiety and therefore continued avoidance of the dental practice.