If the sound of a dentist's drill leaves you trembling, you are probably not alone. Marek, who co-authored the chapter with Henrietta Logan, professor emeritus in the UI College of Dentistry, said about 25 percent of adults are afraid of visiting the dentist.
Evidence suggests that when the patient no longer fears pain, dental fear declines.
Oral anxiety medications, which are very safe, are provided to sedate fearful patients, but Marek said drugs alone are not the answer. This way, the patient gains control over the treatment, which can make a lot of difference to any patient. It is essentially a relearning experience. University of Iowa Health Care describes the partnership between the UI College of Medicine and the UI Hospitals and Clinics and the patient care, medical education and research programs and services they provide.