The Use of Hypnosis, NLP, and Coaching Methods in Dentistry
The Use of Hypnosis, NLP, and Coaching Methods in Dentistry
In the modern era, technological advances in medicine and dentistry have made it essential to also advance and adapt in the area of communication with patients.
Among the fears most commonly experienced today, dental anxiety – often referred to as “fear of the dentist’s chair” – is one of the most prominent. Some patients avoid visiting the dentist until the pain in their teeth or the problems in their mouth become unbearable. Yet, when they finally do go and complete their treatment, they often realize that the fear they had imagined beforehand was far greater than the actual experience. The existence of patients2 dental fears and dentists’ desire to help their patients have led practitioners to explore alternative approaches. As a result of this search, Hypnosis, NLP (Neuro*Linguistic Programming), and Solution-Focused Coaching have become valuable methods in the dentist’s toolbox – techniques that can support both patient and practitioner.
Of these methods, Hypnosis is the most well-known and historically established. Contrary to popular belief, hypnosis is not a state of unconsciousness or loss of control; rather, it is a condition of deep concentration achieved through one’s own willingness. Using this method, it is possible to perform tooth extractions and dental treatments on anxious patients, administer injections to those with needle phobia, take impressions from patients with a strong gag reflex, or help patients who grind their teeth at night overcome the habit. It can even be used to eliminate behaviors such as nail-biting or thumb-sucking. The crucial factor is that the patient must want and accept this form of treatment – once this is achieved, half the challenge is already resolved. If the patient does not wish to participate or does not believe in the process, hypnosis will not occur.
Through NLP, patients can be guided to give up undesired behaviors and develop new, healthier habits. Negative past experiences can be reframed or replaced with positive ones. Using relatively simple techniques, such transformations can often be achieved with surprising ease. In communication with the patient, recognizing the subconscious programs or thought patterns they use allows the dentist to understand them better and communicate more effectively. Every experience we have – and every fear we encounter, especially in childhood – leaves an imprint on us. While some people prevent these impressions from affecting their lives, others absorb them unconsciously, allowing them to shape their behaviors. Such experiences often form the underlying reasons for many adult reactions and anxieties.
Solution-Focused Coaching is another supportive technique that can be used to ensure that the dental treatment process is experienced positively by both dentist and patient. The patient evaluates all possible options and outcomes and, together with the dentist, determines the right steps to move forward confidently. They overcome challenges collaboratively, ensuring that the treatment process is fully and accurately understood.
In essence, even if the treatment is as simple as a “tooth extractions,” the better the communication between dentist and patient, the less anxiety there will be – and the more successful the treatment outcome. Everything begins with willingness. Belief strengthens success.
Ankara Life – Oktober 2014
Zerrin Işık Tüfekçi
