Computer Assisted Relaxation Learning for Dental Offices

This is a randomized study in which two groups will be used to compare the effectiveness of a computerized psychological therapy compared to an information only control group (pamphlet) for reducing fear of dental injections. All patients (96 people with high fear of dental injections) will be tested to assess pre-existing dental fear levels prior to being assigned to study condition. Subsequently, patients in the active treatment group will complete computerized psychological therapy in 1 to 9 weekly 45-minute sessions. Subjects in the control condition will meet with a dental assistant once for approximately 15 minutes to go over a pamphlet. The pamphlet is based on written information developed by a commercial dental web site development company. Following the intervention or control procedures, patients will be reassessed for dental fear using computerized questionnaires. They will also be scheduled to receive a dental injection. Subjects' willingness to complete the dental injection and fear levels during the dental injection will be assessed.

Inclusion criteria

• High dental injection fear
• Age 18 and over
• Healthy with no untreated systemic conditions
• Able to read and write English

Exclusion criteria

• Heart murmur
• Known allergies to lidocaine or benzocaine
• Under 18 year old
• Untreated systemic conditions
• Currently receiving medication for anxiety