Cognitive Behavioral Micro-Modules for Dental Anxiety: Development and Theoretical Integration into Preoperative Dental Care

Background: Dental anxiety affects approximately 16–20% of adults, making them avoid necessary dental treatments such as root canal therapy (RCT), extractions, and oral surgeries. Brief, scalable interventions are indeed needed to mitigate preoperative anxiety without requiring therapist involvement. Objective: This study describes the development and theoretical foundation of an Android-based application delivering cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) micro-modules (2–5 minutes) designed to reduce dental anxiety before procedures. Methods: The app was adapted from an evidence-based HTML5 intervention into a native Android application. It incorporates five core CBT techniques: cognitive restructuring, body scanning, controlled breathing, procedural visualization, and coping statements. The design emphasizes usability, scientific validity, and standalone functionality. Results: The app provides a structured, self-guided intervention that can be completed in under 15 minutes. Theoretical integration draws from the Health Belief Model (HBM), the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, and principles of digital micro-interventions. Conclusions: Mobile CBT micro-modules offer a feasible, cost-effective method for reducing preoperative dental anxiety. Future clinical trials should assess efficacy in RCT, extraction, and surgical settings.