Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Responses to Anticipated High-stress Dental Treatment

Abstract

Twenty-four healthy adults participated in a study to determine the effects of anticipated high-stress dental treatment on blood pressure and heart rate. Blood pressure, heart rate, and state anxiety were assessed prior to four consecutive dental appointments. Appointments 1, 2, and 4 were of relatively low stress and appointment 3 was of relatively high stress. Blood pressure was unaffected while heart rate was highest prior to appointment 3 and lowest prior to appointment 1.