"From what I've read and observed, I'd say that about 80 - 85% of dental phobias result from traumatic dental experiences ..."

I'd love to know where your stats come from.

As a statistician, I'd say, the 80-85% would thrill (and inform) any researcher who handed out a questionnaire, vs. the remaining number that might suffer from.. "generalized anxiety disorder/panic disorder/agoraphobia or fear the dentist because the situation reminds them of past sexual, physical or emotional abuse" especially without any supporting evidence.

I don't necessarily doubt your hypothesis, it's just that there isn't any supporting evidence (to my knowledge) anywhere...such as, persons of sexual abuse who resolve their issues, feel magically ok at the dentist's office.

I'm delighted to hear there is 'more' education in dental schools about phobias. In my experience, that is in comparison to "no" education. And, I've asked! Plus, I know from age about 7 to age 53, it ain't changed that much!

Maybe there's hope for the next three generations!

However, L C, being as you are not on a "normal" board here, I would encourage you to not assume that our disorders or dis-eases (or whatever) make us dentally-challenged. I am not saying that is your assumption, I'm just thinking you might as a 'normal' may have a different take on things, unless you also have some dis-ease with which you are dealing.

I would like to see some serious research into the issue. And every time I've suggested it in the last few decades, dentists are backing up as fast as they can. Even a simple survey/questionnaire! Go figure!

Shar