Individuals With Severe Dental Anxiety — Classification, Diagnosis and Psychological Treatment

ABSTRACT

Severe dental anxiety is a prevalent condition, estimated to be around 5% to 10% among adults. Individuals having dental anxiety usually suffer from poor oral health, frequent tooth pain and avoidance of dental care. This paper presents different ways to assess and diagnose dental anxiety and the evidence base of treatment for dental anxiety. The paper also proposes some guidelines for practicing dentists for the treatment of adult individuals with severe dental anxiety.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Magnus Hakeberg

Magnus Hakeberg, DDS, PhD, is a professor of dental public health in the department of behavioral and community dentistry, Institute of Odontology at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure: None reported.

Ulla Wide

Ulla Wide, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and a professor of behavioral dentistry in the department of behavioral and community dentistry, Institute of Odontology at the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure: None reported.