Verhaltensmedizin, Psychotherapie und Zahnheilkunde

Introduction: Biological, psychological and social processes are relevant to the development and treatment of dental disorders. Yet, knowledge about interactions between these factors has little impact on clinical practice. This article aims to provide an overview of the interplay between behavioral medicine, psychotherapy and dentistry. Methods: The biobehavioral implications of different dental illnesses and disorders (caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, burning-mouth syndrome, and halitosis) as well as biobehavioral characteristics of different patient groups are presented. Results: The existing scientific knowledge in the interdisciplinary field of behavioral medicine, psychotherapy and dentistry provides the basis for a variety of treatment approaches. Their efficacy has, in part, already been confirmed. Discussion: An integration of knowledge on psychobiological processes underlying psychotherapy and dental illnesses may lead to new interventions, based on the concept of neuropsychotherapy. It can be expected that further studies on the efficacy and effectiveness of specific biobehavioral interventions will significantly contribute to an increase in oral health.