Miriam M. Bildt

Miriam M. Bildt serves as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Groningen, specializing in the intersection of dentistry and psychology. With dual qualifications as a dentist (DDS) and psychologist (MSc), Dr. Bildt focuses on the treatment of highly anxious dental patients and the management of patients with various mental health conditions in dental settings. Her work bridges clinical dentistry with psychological approaches to improve patient care experiences at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG).

Dr. Bildt's educational background includes a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), a Master of Science in Psychology, and a doctoral degree (indicated by 'dr.' in her Dutch credentials). Her professional memberships include VMBZ, COBijT, and NIP, reflecting her dual expertise in both dental and psychological fields. These credentials position her uniquely to address the complex challenges of dental anxiety and mental health conditions in clinical practice.

Her research primarily centers on psychological aspects of dental care, with particular emphasis on managing dental anxiety, treating patients with mental health disorders, and addressing specialized challenges such as gagging problems and body dysmorphic disorder in dental contexts. Dr. Bildt has developed systematic approaches for sedation techniques, communication strategies, and behavioral interventions specifically tailored for anxious dental patients. Her influential 'Psychische stoornissen in de mondzorgpraktijk' (Mental Disorders in Dental Practice) series demonstrates how psychological principles can be effectively integrated into routine dental practice to improve patient outcomes and experiences.

Analysis of Dr. Bildt's publication record reveals a clear trajectory from molecular dental research (particularly in periodontics and orthodontics around 2006-2009) toward psychological aspects of dental care (2015-present). Her recent work focuses almost exclusively on mental health conditions in dental practice, with publications addressing specific disorders including substance use disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and general mental health conditions. This evolution reflects a growing recognition of the importance of psychological factors in comprehensive dental care and represents a significant contribution to making dental services accessible to previously underserved patient populations.

Dr. Bildt actively contributes to professional discourse through presentations at conferences such as the VMTI Congres 2023 and specialized talks on gagging problems in dental practice. Her collaborative work extends across dental and psychological disciplines, demonstrating interdisciplinary approaches to patient care challenges. Her research has been cited in multiple studies, particularly her work on peri-implantitis risk factors and dental anxiety management techniques.