Treating the Apprehensive Dental Patient

The purpose of this course is to provide insight about dental-based apprehension from the viewpoint of the patient and to suggest methods to increase patients' ability to obtain dental care. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Differentiate between the terms used to describe levels of dental apprehension.

2. Discuss available tools to screen for dental fear and anxiety.

3. Describe common theories about the origin of dental apprehension.

4. List the most common situations or instruments that stimulate a stress response among dental patients.

5. Identify common verbal and nonverbal signs that indicate a patient is apprehensive about ongoing dental treatment.

6. Evaluate common behavior modification techniques used to treat apprehensive dental patients.

7. List common pharmacologic agents for the treatment of apprehensive dental patients.

8. Analyze the role of dental treatment modifications to assist in meeting the dental needs of apprehensive patients.

9. Discuss how dental staff is affected by providing dental treatment for apprehensive patients.


This 4-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.