The Effects of Therapy Dog Intervention on Distress in Adult Patients Undergoing Dental Procedures: A Pilot Study
Abstract
Dental anxiety affects an estimated 14-34 million Americans. Fearful patients may voluntarily avoid dental treatment, which can lead to otherwise preventable oral disease. Currently, a variety of treatment is available for aiding patients with dental anxiety, including psychological and pharmaceutical therapies, each with associated costs and risks. Recently, there has been an increase in the use of therapy dogs to ease anxious patients in various settings. Studies have demonstrated the psychological benefits of therapy dogs in medical settings. However, there is not any available research on the impact of therapy dogs on adult patients with dental anxiety.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1127880
Entities
People
- Patrick J. Fox
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences