A recent study from the NYU College of Dentistry has uncovered that nearly three out of four adults in the United States experience fear related to dental visits. Published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, the research highlights both the widespread nature of dental anxiety and the willingness of individuals to seek treatment to overcome it.
The survey involved 1,003 adults, providing a representative sample based on various demographics such as age, gender, race, education level, region, and household income. The findings revealed that 72.6 percent of participants reported some level of dental fear. Notably, 45.8 percent indicated moderate fear, while 26.8 percent expressed severe fear. Despite this anxiety, the study indicated a strong interest in treatment options, with 71.2 percent of those with moderate or severe fear showing enthusiasm for a brief, free treatment that could be completed at home.
Many individuals hesitant about treatment cited doubts regarding effectiveness, satisfaction with current coping mechanisms, or time constraints as reasons for their lack of interest. According to Richard Heyman, a professor at NYU Dentistry, “While dental fear is highly treatable, few professionals have received relevant training or offer treatment.” He emphasized the potential of brief, virtual treatments through apps and telehealth to reach those in need, regardless of their location.
To directly address dental anxiety, Heyman and his team developed the Dental FearLess program. This initiative incorporates an app and optional telehealth sessions, employing principles from cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. Preliminary results from a pilot study show promising outcomes, with half of the participants no longer experiencing fear after completing the program. Ongoing clinical trials are set to further validate these findings.
Understanding the Roots of Dental Fear
The NYU researchers are also investigating the origins of dental fear, particularly its connection to memories of past experiences. Previous studies indicate that over half of those with significant dental anxiety have encountered negative experiences at the dentist, often during childhood. Despite this knowledge, there has been limited exploration into how these memories contribute to ongoing fear.
Assistant research scientist Kelly Daly commented on the impact of traumatic dental experiences, noting, “Memories of traumatic dental care can be remarkably vivid and tend to have lifelong implications.” Daly’s team analyzed survey data and reflections from parents regarding their own and their children’s dental fears. Their research, published in the Oral journal, revealed that many individuals associate dental visits with pain and negative interactions with dental professionals. Some recalled outdated practices, such as dentists physically restraining children, which are no longer accepted in modern clinical guidelines.
Participants also shared feelings of distrust towards dentists, fueled by experiences of humiliation or a lack of attentive communication. Daly stated, “The salience of these memories—particularly from childhood—and ways that lifelong oral healthcare can be compromised are important lessons for practicing dental providers.” By fostering open and transparent communication, many of these negative experiences could be avoided.
The studies conducted by Heyman, Daly, and their colleagues were supported by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (UH3DE029453), part of the National Institutes of Health. The content represents the authors’ views and does not necessarily reflect the official opinions of the NIH.
As dental fear remains a significant barrier to accessing care, this research underscores the urgent need for effective treatment options. With the right approaches, there is hope for improving oral health among anxious individuals, paving the way for a healthier future.
