Dental Treatment Under Hypnosis
Fear of dental treatment is a common issue that affects many people. This fear can be so intense that it stands people back from seeking dental care altogether, leading to serious dental problems. However, dental treatment under hypnosis is an increasingly popular option for those who suffer from dental anxiety. Hypnosis can help patients relax and feel more comfortable during dental procedures, making it a viable option for those who are hesitant to undergo any kind of dental treatments.
What is Dental Treatment Under Hypnosis?
Dental treatment under hypnosis is a procedure that involves the use of hypnotherapy during dental procedures. Hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that involves inducing a trance-like state in a patient to help them focus on specific thoughts or feelings. During dental treatment under hypnosis, a hypnotherapist will work with the patient to create a adjusted hypnosis script that is designed to help the patient relax and feel more comfortable during the dental procedure.
Although hypnosis in dental treatment is not very common in our country, it is an intensely needed method. At least 50% of people have a fear of dentists. This is one of the main reasons for common problems in oral and dental health. Patient selection is very important in hypnosis treatment. Moreover, fear and phobia should be distinguished. In this way, along with other treatment techniques such as systematic desensitization, a strong behavior modification method can be applied to support the patient in overcoming the fear completely. To summarize, dental treatment with hypnosis is the harmonization of body, mind and spirit to make the patient open to treatment. And after hypnosis treatment, the phobia or fear in the patient can disappear completely. After dental treatment with hypnosis, it has been determined that there is either no or less pain compared to normal patients.
Benefits of Dental Treatment Under Hypnosis
Dental treatment under hypnosis can offer several benefits to patients. Firstly, hypnosis can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety levels. This helps patients feel more relaxed and comfortable during dental procedures, which can improve the overall experience. Secondly, hypnosis can be used to reduce pain and discomfort during dental procedures. Hypnosis can be used to alter the patient’s perception of pain, making it more manageable. Finally, hypnosis is used to improve patient compliance. Patients who are under hypnosis are more likely to follow instructions from their dentist, which can lead to better treatment outcomes.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Treatment Under Hypnosis?
Dental treatment under hypnosis can be beneficial for anyone who suffers from dental anxiety or phobia. Dental anxiety is a common condition that affects many people, with some studies suggesting that up to 75% of adults experience some form of dental anxiety. Dental phobia, on the other hand, is a more severe form of dental anxiety that can cause people to avoid dental care altogether.
Dental treatment under hypnosis can be particularly beneficial for people with severe dental anxiety or phobia, as it can help them feel calmer and more relaxed during dental procedures. It can also be beneficial for people who experience pain or discomfort during dental procedures, as hypnosis can be used to reduce pain and discomfort.
The Process of Dental Treatment Under Hypnosis
The process of dental treatment under hypnosis typically involves a few steps. Firstly, the dentist will discuss the treatment plan with the patient and assess their level of anxiety. Then the dentist will work with a hypnotherapist to create a hypnosis script that is adjusted to the patient’s needs. Then the hypnotherapist will induce a hypnotic state in the patient using relaxation techniques. Once the patient is in a hypnotic state, the dentist will begin the dental procedure. During the procedure, the hypnotherapist will continue to guide the patient through the hypnotic state, helping to keep them relaxed and calm.
What Happens During Dental Treatment Under Hypnosis?
During dental treatment under hypnosis, the patient will be in a trance-like state. They will be aware of their surroundings and able to respond to the dentist’s instructions, but they will be in a more relaxed and comfortable state. The hypnotherapist will use relaxation techniques to help the patient enter a hypnotic state, and will continue to guide the patient through the hypnotic state during the dental procedure.
The hypnosis script that the hypnotherapist creates will be adjusted to the patient’s needs. It may include suggestions to help the patient feel more relaxed, visualizations to help them imagine themselves in a calm and peaceful place, and positive affirmations to help them stay focused and calm during the procedure.
Benefits of Dental Treatment Under Hypnosis
- Relieving the anxiety and concerns of the person against the phobic condition defined as “fear of the dentist”, “fear of the dentist’s chair”,
- Performing dental operations painlessly without the need for any chemical anesthetics with hypnoanesthesia,
- Since the patient’s intense stress can, in some cases, render even the anesthesia ineffective, the patient needs to achieve physical and mental relaxation through hypnosis. Hypnosis increases the effect of the anesthetic to be used even in small amounts,
- Isolation of the person during the operation against external stimuli that may cause discomfort,
- Preventing fatigue with the catalepsy to be provided in the jaw in long-lasting operations,
- To control salivation and bleeding,
- To relieve the nausea reflex,
- Post hypnotic suggestions to relieve post-operative pain and accelerate recovery.
Is Dental Treatment Under Hypnosis Safe?
Dental treatment under hypnosis is generally considered safe when it is performed by a trained professional. However, there are some potential risks associated with hypnosis, including:
- False memories
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Headaches or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
It is important to choose a qualified and experienced hypnotherapist to perform the procedure, and to discuss any concerns with your dentist or healthcare provider before undergoing dental treatment under hypnosis.
Conclusion
Dental treatment under hypnosis is a viable option for those who suffer from dental anxiety. It offers several benefits, including reduced anxiety levels, pain management, and improved patient compliance. The process involves creating a tailored hypnosis script, inducing a hypnotic state, and guiding the patient through the dental procedure. Overall, dental treatment under hypnosis can help patients feel more comfortable and relaxed during dental procedures, leading to better treatment outcomes. If you suffer from dental anxiety, it may be worth to consider dental treatment under hypnosis as an option.