Robert Schibbye

My research focuses on understanding, preventing, and treating dental phobia and related Blood-Injection-Injury (BII) phobias in children and adolescents. By mapping prevalence, developmental pathways, prevention, and treatment methods, my work aims to reduce the suffering and functional impairment caused by these conditions.

Our studies demonstrate that dental phobia is a distinct clinical entity with unique risk profiles. We have identified a strong link between dental phobia and injection phobia, suggesting that these conditions share specific underlying vulnerabilities. Furthermore, our clinical trials have shown that exposure-based ICBT is an effective treatment with sustained long-term benefits and has the potential for safe implementation within general dental care.

My ongoing work aims to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice. The primary focus is on developing scalable methods for the prevention and treatment of dental phobia, alongside continued epidemiological research to better understand the mechanisms behind BII phobias.

As Course Director and Subject Area Lead, I oversee the Professional Development track, a longitudinal module running throughout the Dentistry Programme. I integrate evidence-based learning psychology to foster person-centered care and to shape confident dentists who apply a biopsychosocial perspective to their patients.