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Dental phobia in Germany leads to increased health risks
The 6th German Oral Health Study (DMS • 6) highlights the significant impact of dental phobia on public health. Research indicates that dental anxiety leads to a cycle of avoidance, resulting in untreated caries, tooth loss, and increased needs for periodontal treatment.
Statistics from the study show that 26 percent of individuals aged 35 to 44 and 23 percent of those aged 65 to 74 report dental anxiety. Approximately 9 percent of younger adults and seniors suffer from severe dental phobia, a recognized medical condition.
Dr. Romy Ermler, President of the German Dental Association and chair of the proDente initiative, emphasizes that dental anxiety should not be a taboo subject. Experts suggest that open communication with dental teams, establishing clear treatment agreements, and using relaxation techniques can help patients regain a sense of control and break the cycle of avoidance.
Entities
6. Deutsche Mundgesundheitsstudie · Bundeszahnärztekammer · ProDente · Romy Ermler
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Cognitive behavioral therapy is the preferred treatment for dental phobia according to guidelines. www.iww.de
- [● 2 SOURCES] Higher dental fear correlates with untreated caries, missing teeth, and increased need for periodontal treatment. www.go-with-us.de · www.presseschleuder.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Dental treatment anxiety with clinical significance affects approximately 5 to 10 percent of the population. www.iww.de
- [● 2 SOURCES] 26 percent of 35- to 44-year-olds and 23 percent of 65- to 74-year-olds report dental treatment fear. www.go-with-us.de · www.presseschleuder.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Dental phobia is a recognized clinical condition classified as a specific phobia. www.go-with-us.de · www.presseschleuder.com · www.iww.de