The use of relaxation and distraction to reduce psychological stress during dental procedures.

Relaxation and distraction techniques designed to reduce stress during operative dental procedures were evaluated with a number of different measures. The results indicate that both techniques can be effective in alleviating anxiety and reducing stress. Some findings suggested that relaxation was more effective with women than with men whereas distraction may be more effective with men than with women. Further research is needed to refine these techniques that should be readily adaptable to dental practice.