Mental imagery in dentistry: Phenomenology and role in dental anxiety

Annegret Schneider*, Jackie Andrade, Karin Tanja-Dijkstra, David R. Moles

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to JournalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Dental anxiety is a prevalent problem with marked psychological, physical and public health implications. Based on cognitive theory and evidence, we hypothesized that vivid, sensory image-based cognitions play a role in dental anxiety. A quantitative online survey (N = 306) and qualitative semi-structured interviews (N = 18) found that vivid sensory images were common irrespective of dental anxiety levels, but that their content, associated distress and responses varied. Participants reporting higher anxiety experienced intense and intrusive fear-provoking dental imagery focusing on unpleasant sensations, which were associated with the intrusive recollection of negative past experiences and avoidance of dentistry. Participants with lower anxiety ratings, reported images that were less distressing and centered around reassuring aspects and positive appointment outcomes, potentially acting as protective factors against dental anxiety and facilitating appointment attendance. The inclusion of components aimed at reducing intrusive memories and dental imagery rescripting may help improve interventions for dental anxiety.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)33-41
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Anxiety Disorders
Volume58
Early online date30 Jun 2018
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2018

Keywords

  • Cognitive processes
  • Fear
  • Image-based cognitions
  • Intrusion
  • Involuntary memory

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