Why is this important? 9% to 15% of Americans avoid seeing the dentist because of anxiety and fear (Columbia University College of Dental Medicine). 36% of those who didn't see a dentist regularly said that fear was the main reason (Columbia University College of Dental Medicine).

Dental Anxiety vs. Dental Phobia Dental anxiety: Psychological response to a dental stimulus (or potential stimulus) Dental phobia: Panic attack Excessive fear Interferes with normal functioning

Causes Pain Helplessness/loss of control Embarrassment Negative past experiences

How can the cycle be broken?

How can it be treated using the arts?

Music distraction vs. brief relaxation Music distraction: listened to music during the procedure Brief relaxation: focused on functional releaxation “It is based on a widely held perception that in a dental setting, music can reduce pain and anxiety, which are linked closely and lead to a mutual amplification” (Lahmann 4).

Music distraction in pediatric patients

SO WHAT?

Are there any ethical issues involved when it comes to distracting patients during medical/dental procedures? “The power of music to move us is something quite special as an artistic phenomenon” (Copland 9). What do you think are the most effective ways to address anxiety at the dentist’s office or any other healthcare setting? How does this impact the dentist/patient relationship?

Works Cited you-love-listening-to-music-while-in-the-dentists-chair.jpg you-love-listening-to-music-while-in-the-dentists-chair.jpg %20pic2.jpg %20pic2.jpg on_versus_music_distraction_in_the_treatment_of_dental_anxi ety_a_randomized_controlled_clinical_trial on_versus_music_distraction_in_the_treatment_of_dental_anxi ety_a_randomized_controlled_clinical_trial