Viewing positive images of dentistry reduces anticipatory anxiety in children.

DESIGN

This was a randomised controlled trial (RCT).

INTERVENTION

Participants were randomised to viewing positive images of dentistry and dental or dentally neutral photographs for 2 min in the waiting area prior to their appointment.

OUTCOME MEASURE

Anticipatory anxiety assessed by the Venham Picture Test.

RESULTS

A significant difference in anticipatory dental anxiety was found between the two groups (median-positive images, 0; median-neutral images, 3; P<0.001). Anticipatory anxiety was not correlated with age (0.04; P>0.05) and there was no significant difference between male and female participants in their level of anticipatory anxiety (median for males, 0.5; median for females, 1; P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Viewing positive images of dentistry and dentists results in short-term reductions in anticipatory anxiety in children.