Few experiences evoke as much fear as sitting in the dental chair—especially for those whose trust was broken early in life. Bridging the fields of psychology and dentistry, a recent study led by Lena Myran, psychologist and PhD student at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, has shed new light on how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)—including bullying, parental divorce, abuse and parental alcohol misuse—may contribute to dental fear among young people. In this interview with Dental Tribune International, Myran discusses how early adversity can shape lifelong relationships with dentistry and suggests how dental professionals can help young patients rebuild trust.