[Treatment strategies for anxious adults in general dental practice: guidelines for mild forms of anxiety]

Abstract

In this article an attempt is made to formulate a number of general clinical guidelines, based on the currently available knowledge and clinical experience within the area of dental anxiety. It is concluded that, in case of mild forms of anxiety, a careful treatment approach of the dental practitioner--which is focused on a style of establishing trust, specific pharmacological support and the teaching of coping strategies--can reduce patients' anxiety level, thereby preventing avoidance behaviour and deterioration of the oral health.