title: Understanding dental fear.
abstract: Collecting the answer to the 3 basic questions discussed above is both an art and a science that takes practice on the part of the doctor. Yet, by doing so, a treatment plan can be tailored that not only addresses the patient's motivators, but also considers their barriers to treatment. Patients who present with dental fear need not be viewed as challenging or difficult. Instead, they often represent the ideal patient (only in disguise). They often need extensive dental care. They are loyal, staying with a dentist despite changes in dental insurance coverage or moving away from the office. They are proud of their success and are genuinely most outgoing in serving as referrals. And finally, they are deserving of the very best care we have to offer.
authors.forename: Larry J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Sangrik
mesh_terms: D001008:Anxiety Disorders / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology; D016854:Dental Anxiety / Q000145:classification / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology*; D003729:Dental Care / Q000523:psychology; D004644:Emotions; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D010146:Pain / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology; D010551:Personality