Psychotherapy linked to helping dental anxiety

Psychotherapy and counselling have been linked to helping with dental anxiety according to a recent study.

Dental anxiety: Fear of the dentist

Hands up if you hate going to the dentist? Thought so.

It comes as no surprise that many of us get feelings of anxiety or fear when we have to book an appointment. Not to mention heating the snap of the rubber gloves going on. The British Dental Journal recently published a study (conducted by Kings College London) promoting talking therapies and CBT to combat anxiety in regards to visiting the dentist.

Diffuse emotions

Conceptualising and talking through our fears (the emotions and thoughts that confound them), show a marked improvement. Therapy helps to diminish the emotional response felt towards previous anxiety-provoking situations. In the case of the study, after having therapy, four-fifths (79%) went on to have dental treatment, without the need for sedation. Similar results have been found from confronting (and rehabilitation in) many other phobias and fears.

A course of psychotherapy may help you to be free of your cognitive and emotional limitations of dental anxiety.

If you would like to see how therapy can help you visiting the dentistt. Head to Therapy in London for more information.