title: Relaxation and complementary therapies: an alternative approach to managing dental anxiety in clinical practice.
abstract: Dental anxiety is a widespread problem and has a significant impact on the provision of dental care for the general population. Anxiety leads to avoidance of dental treatment and increased stress for dental practitioners. Traditionally, dental anxiety has been managed using pharmacological techniques. This article reviews alternative treatment approaches, including psychological and complementary therapies which can be used in managing dental anxiety and facilitating dental treatment. Many of these approaches are currently being used within the dental profession. Others are gaining a wider acceptance as to their usage. Where available, the evidence of their efficacy will be reviewed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Restorative Dentistry, Birmingham Dental Hospital.
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Hainsworth
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Moss
authors.forename: K J
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Fairbrother
mesh_terms: D000529:Complementary Therapies; D016854:Dental Anxiety / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D012064:Relaxation Therapy