SIR: Most people feel slightly anxious when visiting the dentist, but for some it can be a really daunting experience. Despite the fact that a visit to the dentist is now usually pain free, some adults are not seeking treatment because they suffer from dental phobia. But it's important to remember that if you visit the dentist regularly, any problems you have will be spotted early and treated before they become serious.

The BDA produces a fact file on dental phobia, and you can obtain a copy by sending a stamped, addressed envelope - clearly marked 'dental phobia' - to Education & Science Department, British Dental Association, 64 Wimpole Street, London W1M 8AL.

Kate Cinamon

Press Office - British Dental Association

Wimpole Street, London

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.