A clinician guide to patients afraid of dental injections and numbness

Abstract

Fears of dental injections remain a clinical problem often requiring cognitive behavioural psychology counselling and sedation in order to carry out needed dental treatment. This study, based on a national survey in Australia, compared patient concerns about numbness caused by local anaesthesia and fears of the injection itself. It also examined associations between dental fearfulness and avoidance associated with patient selfreported negative experiences and treatment need. Clinical advice on how to approach such patients is offered.