New research has shown that treating dental fear at a young age can have several benefits in the long-term. The research shows that if a person with a fear of the dentist gets appropriate treatment, then they are likelier to attend dental appointments in the future. This study, based in Finland, focused on a clinic targeted at those who had dental fear. The findings show it is important to treat dental fear at a young age, rather than letting it worsen over time.
Recent research has shown that treating dental fear from a young age is crucial for long-term strong oral health. If dental fear is ignored, it risks worsening over time.
The researchers analysed patients at a Finland-based dental clinic that was specifically used to treat those with dental fear [1]. These clinics are rare, but are worth researching.
The researchers reviewed the progress of patients treated at the clinic as a means of finding out if early treatment of dental fear had a positive long-term effect. The results were positive [1].
The vicious cycle
Being afraid of the dentist is very common. For example, approximately 1 in 2 adults say they are at least “somewhat afraid” of the dentist, with 1 in 10 saying they are “very afraid” [2].
As a result, there are various coping mechanisms that people resort to in order to make it through the ordeal. Some will ask to be anesthetized, while some may play music or daydream. But by far the most damaging action is avoidance. This is simply where a person chooses to avoid going to the dentist.
Avoidance of dental appointments can result in worsening overall health. Moreover, studies show that avoidance of dental appointments is associated with poor self-care, and physical health problems [3].
If a person does avoid going to the dentist, their oral health will worsen over time. Moreover, their problems will get progressively worse. What might have started out as a simple cavity filling might morph into something more serious, like an infection that requires a root canal.
Sadly, this pain will only become more intense. Therefore, this will make the patient less likely to return in the future. And thus, the vicious cycle continues.
The Research
The research was produced by researchers at the University of Oulu, Finland [1]. The researchers followed a group of 152 participants that had been treated at a clinic named the Clinic for Fearful Dental Patients [1]. This clinic is located in Oulu, Finland.
This clinic is a specially-crafted area where patients receive help with their dental fear, as well as actual dental treatment [1]. This approach aims to help a patient to overcome their fear of the dentist.
This model is rather unique, and focuses on dealing with dental fear as well as dental care. This is unlike other dental clinics, which focus purely on carrying out treatment. Forms of talking therapy are typically used at the clinic to treat dental fear.
The study looked at the long-term effects of treatment for dental fear. They carried out a follow-up study on the 152 participants [1]. This study was set 10 years later, to see how they were coping with dental treatments a decade after their treatment at the clinic [1].
The researchers asked the 152 participants whether or not they are able to get regular dental treatment without a problem, or if they still require help, or remain a patient at the clinic [1].
In the end, the results proved to be very effective. The researchers found that the majority of the 152 now had no issue in attending a regular dentist [1]. Only a small amount remained uncomfortable. The evidence shows that the treatment does have a positive effect.
Analysing the results
These results build upon previous research into the Clinic for Fearful Dental Patients, which found that 7 out of 10 people treated at the clinic found their dental fear lessened immediately as a result of treatment [4]. Therefore, the evidence shows it has both positive short and long-term effects.
Lead Researcher Taina Kankaala commented on the findings. She said that this study showed the long-term benefits that were possible as a result of treatment at a young age [2]. However, the level of success was “surprising” to Kankaala, who had expected more modest results [2].
Kankaala mentioned that if dental fear wasn’t addressed, then a “severe fear of dental care will usually not ease” on its own, meaning treatment is crucial [2].
It could be suggested that this model of working with nervous or afraid patients can have long-term benefits for both clinics and patients. Clinics will have less cancelled appointments, while patients will be more open to attending check-ups.
In the future, it is possible that similar clinics could be created. They certainly seem to be effective. This research certainly suggests such clinics would be useful for many people.
Thinking points…
- 1) It is completely normal to feel anxious or uneasy about going to the dentist. But options are available. Here at Savanna Dental, our staff are trained to provide a comforting and warm experience throughout your time with us. You will have the chance to discuss any reservations or concerns, and our professional staff will try to put you at ease!
- 2) We briefly mentioned about how dental problems will get worse if left untreated. While this is true, it is never too late to seek treatment. Therefore, if you have many untreated oral health problems or haven’t been to the dentist in many years, we recommend that you book a check-up soon! The sooner you are treated, the easier your problems will be to treat.
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and some cosmetic services.
It is important for dental problems to be addressed early. Any oral-based problems will be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting worse. If and when further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan.
The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.
Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.
We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadental.ca.
References
- [1] Kankaala, T., Laine, H., Laitala, M-L., Rajavaara, P., Vähänikkilä, H., Pesonen, P., & Anttonen, V. (2021). 10-year follow-up study on attendance pattern after dental treatment in primary oral health care clinic for fearful patients. BMC Oral Health. 21(522): p1-13. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-021-01869-6.
- [2] The University of Oulu. (2021). Dental fear treatment in childhood has a positive impact on later dental care. Available: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220110/Dental-fear-treatment-in-childhood-has-a-positive-impact-on-later-dental-care.aspx. Last accessed: 16th January 2022.
- [3] Carter, A. E., Carter, G., Boschen, M., AlShwaimi, E., & George, R. (2014). Pathways of fear and anxiety in dentistry: a review. World Journal of Clinical Cases. 2(11): p642–653. DOI: https://doi.org/10.12998/wjcc.v2.i11.642.
- [4] Kankaala, T., Määttä, T., Tolvanen, M., Lahti, S., & Anttonen, V. (2019). Outcome of Chair-Side Dental Fear Treatment: Long-Term Follow-Up in Public Health Setting. International Journal of Dentistry. 2019(5825067): p1-6. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2019/5825067.
