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Computerized Tool to Manage Dental Anxiety: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
M Tellez1, C M Potter2, D G Kinner2
1Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA marisol@temple.edu.
Journal of Dental Research
|July 24, 2015
Summary
A new computerized cognitive-behavioral therapy program effectively reduced dental anxiety and phobia in patients. This intervention shows promise for improving oral health-related quality of life by overcoming fear of dental procedures.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Dentistry
- Health Technology
Background:
- Dental anxiety is a prevalent issue impacting oral health and quality of life.
- Anxiety acts as a significant barrier to routine dental care and treatment adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and assess a computerized cognitive-behavioral therapy (cCBT) intervention for dental anxiety.
- To evaluate the efficacy of cCBT in reducing dental anxiety, fear, and avoidance behaviors.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial (N=151) compared immediate cCBT treatment to a wait-list control group.
- Participants with high dental anxiety received psychoeducation, exposure therapy, and cognitive restructuring via a computer program.
- Intention-to-treat analyses of covariance assessed outcomes at 1-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- The immediate treatment group showed significant reductions in dental anxiety, fear, and avoidance compared to the control group.
- Fewer patients in the treatment group met criteria for dental phobia at follow-up.
- The computer-based intervention demonstrated efficacy in managing dental fear and phobia.
Conclusions:
- Computerized cognitive-behavioral therapy is an effective tool for reducing dental anxiety and phobia.
- This intervention has the potential for widespread implementation in dental settings to improve patient outcomes.
- Further research is needed to confirm effectiveness in real-world clinical environments.