Dental anxiety and phobia are prevalent issues worldwide, significantly impacting individuals’ oral health and contributing to reduced dental care. The present review examines the assessment, prevalence, and treatment of dental anxiety, focusing on recent developments in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and pharmacological interventions. Research indicates that psychological approaches such as CBT and mindfulness are effective in reducing anxiety, while pharmacological methods continue to be explored for their efficacy in clinical settings. Additionally, the review highlights the emerging technologies, like internet-based therapy and hypnosis, as promising adjuncts to traditional treatments. Understanding the multifactorial causes of dental anxiety can guide individualized care plans and improve patient outcomes.
Keywords:- cognitive-behavioral therapy
- dental anxiety
- dental phobia
- sedation
- virtual reality therapy