The fear of the dentist, known as odontophobia, affects a significant portion of the population – approximately 15% in Spain. New research from Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) suggests a promising, non-pharmacological approach to easing this anxiety: immersing patients in fictional stories or calming soundscapes while undergoing dental procedures. The study, conducted at a dental clinic in Castellón, found that 7 out of 10 patients reported feeling relaxed when listening to these auditory distractions.
Dental anxiety isn’t merely a feeling of unease; it can have tangible consequences for oral health. Individuals experiencing high levels of anxiety may postpone or avoid dental visits altogether, leading to worsening conditions and more complex treatments down the line. As highlighted in research published in J Pharm Bioallied Sci. in 2025, managing dental anxiety is crucial for improving oral health outcomes and encouraging consistent preventative care. The UPF study builds on existing evidence suggesting that music therapy, a related non-invasive technique, can be effective in reducing anxiety levels in dental settings.
The UPF research involved participants listening to either suspenseful fictional stories or sound recreations of natural environments, specifically a walk in the forest, through headphones both before and during dental work. The results indicated a substantial positive effect: 72% of participants reported feeling relaxed with the sound stimuli, and 65% perceived the dental visit as shorter than it actually was. Physiological measurements further supported these subjective reports, with 73% of those listening to the podcasts exhibiting a decrease in heart rate.
Berenice Ponce, the lead researcher and doctoral candidate at UPF, explained the rationale behind the study. “Patients in a dental clinic can be subjected to a lot of stress, having to be with your mouth open, listen to many noises in your environment, and put yourself in the hands of the dentist,” she stated. “Having managed to make the person relax, to focus their attention on other stimuli, is already a very positive effect. People expressed that they had never felt so cared for and attended to at the dentist.”
The study’s findings suggest that sound fiction may be particularly effective due to its ability to stimulate the imagination. The act of visualizing the narrative unfolds in the listener’s mind, diverting attention away from the potentially stressful dental procedure. This contrasts with soundscapes, which, while relaxing, may not engage the same level of cognitive distraction. This aligns with broader understanding of distraction techniques in pain and anxiety management, where focusing on an engaging stimulus can reduce the perception of discomfort.
The research builds upon a growing body of evidence supporting the use of non-pharmacological interventions for managing anxiety in healthcare settings. As noted in a study examining the effect of music intervention on dental anxiety, these approaches offer a valuable alternative or complement to traditional methods like conscious sedation with nitrous oxide. While nitrous oxide can be effective, it carries potential side effects and requires careful monitoring. Sound-based therapies, are generally considered safe, and accessible.
It’s important to note that this study focused specifically on the use of podcasts and soundscapes. Further research is needed to explore the optimal characteristics of these auditory interventions – including genre, pacing, and sound quality – to maximize their effectiveness. The study was conducted in a single dental clinic, and larger, multi-center trials are needed to confirm the generalizability of the findings. The meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychiatry in 2024 emphasizes the need for continued investigation into the application of music therapy and related interventions in dental settings, considering factors like music type, duration, and volume.
The UPF study highlights a simple yet potentially powerful way to improve the patient experience in dentistry. By harnessing the therapeutic power of sound and distraction, dental professionals may be able to alleviate anxiety, encourage regular check-ups, and ultimately promote better oral health for their patients. The research underscores the importance of considering the psychological well-being of patients alongside their physical dental needs.
