Odontophobia Across the Lifespan: Clinical Perspectives, Vulnerable Populations, and Inclusive Strategies for Dental Anxiety Management

Odontophobia, defined as the intense and persistent fear of dentists or dental care, is a widely underestimated, yet clinically significant, barrier to oral health. It affects individuals across all age groups, from children to the elderly, and is particularly prevalent among those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Odontophobia is a multifactorial condition influenced by psychological, sensory, cognitive, and sociocultural factors. Left unaddressed, it contributes to poor oral health outcomes, avoidant behavior, and broader health disparities. This perspective paper explores the clinical manifestations and principles of management of odontophobia across populations and different age groups, highlighting the limitations of pharmacological sedation, especially when used in isolation. Instead, evidence supports the use of cognitive behavioral strategies, desensitization protocols, sensory-adaptive environments, and communication-based approaches, such as the "tell-show-do" method. Innovative technologies, including virtual reality, offer additional promise. This paper also addresses critical gaps in the research, the paucity of tailored interventions for vulnerable groups, and both ethical and legal complexities surrounding consent, autonomy, and equitable access. Ultimately, managing odontophobia requires a shift toward "person-centered" and "trauma-informed" dental care, supported by interdisciplinary collaboration, inclusive infrastructure, and policy-level commitment to reduce fear-based disparities in oral health.