Hypnotic dentistry

What has been said concerning the use of hypnotism in surgery applies to its application in dentistry to a considerable extent. Analgesic suggestions may be effectively employed in even the lightest stages of hypnosis for general dental work, such as drilling, filling, etc. Nervous patients may be relaxed; and the fear of pain, both in adults and children, largely controlled by repeated suggestions that they will feel no pain. In the deeper stages of hypnosis, complete anaesthesia can be induced and teeth extracted without pain. Do not fail to test the degree of analgesia, however, before attempting major dental operations. When the patient is evidently hypnotised, the dentist should say, "Sleep deeply— relax completely—have no fear—you will feel no pain—anything you feel will be pleasant—there will be no pain—keep your mouth open—breathe normally— sleep deeply."

From time to time, while you are doing the indicated dental work, repeat the command to sleep deeply, as well as the assurance that there will be no pain. Before waking the patient, give him post-hypnotic suggestions that when he awakens he will feel refreshed, and will suffer only slight discomfort and little or no pain, according to the seriousness of the work performed.

Hypnotic dentistry