Health-related internet support groups and dental anxiety: the fearful patient's online journey

Dental fear and anxiety is a common problem affecting many individuals but for some the problem is more severe. This study examined the discussions which took place between members of a dental anxiety/phobia internet support group. A total of 621 messages were thematically analysed and yielded seven key themes which reflected the various points in the 'journey' towards overcoming their fear: a) 'I can still remember?'; b) 'I was ashamed to smile or laugh'; c) 'This big dark secret I can't share with anyone'; d) 'I can't stand it anymore'; e) 'I cross the street rather than walk past the dental surgery'; f) 'Talking to a computer is much easier'; g) 'Find a dentist that you are comfortable with'. Future research should seek to explore in more depth the nature of the changes in levels of dental anxiety/phobia which might occur as a result of engagement with the group.