Understanding & Managing Dental Fears, Presented by: Dr. Michael Silverman, DMD, DICOI, FACD, FICD, FIADFE

Only available as part of a package

This course explores the psychological and physiological aspects of dental fear and anxiety, providing a comprehensive approach to sedation dentistry. Participants will gain insight into the origins of dental phobia, the bio-psycho-social model of anxiety, and evidence-based strategies for both non-pharmacological and pharmacological management. Emphasis will also be placed on effective communication techniques, patient-centered care, and best practices for building trust with fearful patients.

Objectives:

Define the common sources of dental fear and anxiety.
Differentiate between anxiety and fear, recognizing behavioral and physiological indicators in patients.
Explain the bio-psycho-social model of dental anxiety development and maintenance.
Identify risk factors for dental anxiety, including childhood experiences and prior trauma.
Compare non-pharmacological methods for reducing anxiety, such as hypnosis, meditation, behavioral modification, and bioral beats.
Understand the role of pharmacological interventions, particularly benzodiazepines, in managing dental anxiety.
Describe anterograde amnesia and its clinical significance in sedation dentistry.
Apply communication strategies that foster trust and minimize fear before, during, and after sedation.
Implement dismissal criteria and re-care scheduling to support long-term patient comfort and compliance.
Recognize inappropriate language or behaviors that may increase patient anxiety and avoid them.

Dr. Michael Silverman

In addition to four decades of experience as a general dentist, Dr. Michael D. Silverman is a globally recognized lecturer, education, and patients’ rights advocate. His extensive dental background and entrepreneurial spirit led to the development of DOCS Education and RAMP – Results-Driven Advertising & Marketing Professionals. As the President of DOCS and RAMP, Dr. Silverman has taught over 30,000 dental professionals how to implement sedation and how to acquire new patients.

In November 2015, Dr. Silverman was inducted as a Fellow of the International College of Dentistry, and in 2020 as a Fellow of the American College of Dentistry in recognition of his exemplary professional accomplishments and devotion to improving the practice of dentistry.