DOI:

10.37988/1811-153X_2026_1_198

The use of infographics in combating fear: an integrated approach to managing dental phobia in patients

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Authors

  • V.V. Aliamovskii 1, Doctor of Science in Medicine, professor of the Therapeutic dentistry propaedeutics Department
    ORCID: 0000-0001-6073-2324
  • N.R. Evarnitskaya 1, PhD in Medical Sciences, associate professor of the Therapeutic dentistry propaedeutics Department
    ORCID: 0000-0001-6250-1714
  • I.K. Grositskaya 1, PhD in Medical Sciences, associate professor of the Therapeutic dentistry propaedeutics Department
    ORCID: 0009-0003-0235-2106
  • M.O. Tsargasova 1, assistant at the Therapeutic dentistry propaedeutics Department
    ORCID: 0009-0004-7040-8594
  • K.A. Matsepuro 1, assistant at the Therapeutic dentistry propaedeutics Department
    ORCID: 0009-0005-7784-9891
  • S.A. Orlova 1, 3rd year student
    ORCID: 0009-0001-1539-9056
  • D.A. Antonov 1, 3rd year student
  • M.Z. Nebezheva 1, laboratory technician at the Therapeutic dentistry propaedeutics Department
    ORCID: 0009-0008-4979-4418
  • 1 Russian University of Medicine, 127006, Moscow, Russia

Abstract

Feelings of fear are a natural reaction to danger. Dental treatment is often alarming: about 80% of patients in Russia experience it before a visit to the doctor. Dentophobia remains a common problem, highlighting the need to find effective solutions. A systematic review of the literature and questionnaires of patients (different age groups) and dentists were conducted. The survey confirmed the widespread prevalence of dentophobia, 50% of patients associate it with a negative experience. The main triggers are fear of pain (64%) and drill sounds (66%). 76% of doctors say that dentophobia negatively affects the quality of treatment. Based on the data analysis, the final product was developed — information graphics. Its central element is respiratory practice. Blocks “Before reception” and “During reception” contain QR-codes of links to audio and video materials with methods adapted for different types of perception (visuals, audio, etc.)
Conclusion.
Modern dentistry is aimed not only at treatment, but also at overcoming dentophobia. Developed infographics allow you to clearly and informatively present methods for reducing anxiety, adapted for patients.

Key words:

dentophobia, fear, dentist, oral diseases, hypnotherapy

For Citation

[1]
Aliamovskii V.V., Evarnitskaya N.R., Grositskaya I.K., Tsargasova M.O., Matsepuro K.A., Orlova S.A., Antonov D.A., Nebezheva M.Z. The use of infographics in combating fear: an integrated approach to managing dental phobia in patients. Clinical Dentistry (Russia).  2026; 29 (1): 198—204. DOI: 10.37988/1811-153X_2026_1_198

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Received

November 18, 2025

Accepted

February 9, 2026

Published on

March 31, 2026