Anesthesia · single question
What are the BEST management approaches for an anxious dental patient?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Desensitization and nitrous oxide
Systematic desensitization (behavioral) combined with nitrous oxide (pharmacologic) addresses both psychological and physiological components of dental anxiety.
- A. ❌ Benzodiazepines alone do not address the cognitive/behavioral aspect.
- B. ❌ Nitrous oxide alone addresses pharmacologic anxiety but not behavioral.
- C. ✅ CORRECT – Desensitization + nitrous oxide = comprehensive anxiety management.
- D. ❌ General anesthesia is a last resort for extreme cases.