This study compared the effectiveness of a one session psychological (PSYCH) intervention for dental anxiety with benzodiazepine (PHARM) and no treatment (CONTROL). Results indicated significant lowering of anxiety in both treatment groups (PSYCH and PHARM) compared to CONTROLS while undergoing dental surgery. However, the PHARM group returned to pre-treatment anxiety levels within one day after surgery (and at 1 week and two month follow-up); whereas the improvement for the PSYCH group continued on follow-up. Seventy percent of the PSYCH group continued dental treatments whereas only 20 percent of the PHARM group did, and only 10 percent of CONTROLs continued dental treatment.

Comparison between one-session psychological treatment and benzodiazepine in dental phobia.

By Thom, Anja; Sartory, Gudrun; Joehren, Peter
Journal of Consulting & Clinical Psychology. 2000 Jun Vol 68(3) 378-387