Relaxation and musical programming as means of reducing psychological stress during dental procedures

Relaxation and musical programming as techniques designed to reduce stress during operative dental procedures were evaluated with a number of different measures. The results indicate that relaxation is an effective method of reducing patient anxiety. However, the results with musical programs suggest that music, at best, results in a placebo effect. This effect is similar to that of administering an inactive drug that produces beneficial effects in some patients some of the time. Relaxation appears to be a consistent method of reducing stress. Although the relaxation technique is preferred more by women that by men, it is effective with both sexes.