Hypnotist to drill patients in how to beat fear of dentists

Published on Tuesday 4 August 2009 11:03

THEY have long helped smokers and slimmers achieve their goals by delving into the recesses of their subconscious.

Now a hypnotist has been hired by a city dental practice to help reluctant patients overcome their fears of the dentist's chair.

Clinical hypnotherapist Peter Davies will work at the Lubiju practice in Leith to help the estimated one in eight of the population who have a phobia of the dentist.

It is thought to be the first time a dentist in Scotland has hired an in-house hypnotist, although the practice is common in the US.

Mr Davies, who is based in Craigentinny and has worked with city smokers and slimmers over the last ten years, is expected to use traditional hypnotists' techniques to reassure frightened patients.

He will work with patients well in advance of their treatment and could even accompany them to their first appointment.

Mr Davies said: "It is estimated that 12 per cent of people in the UK have such a fear of dentists they refuse to go under any circumstances – that's around seven million people putting up with painful and problem teeth.

"What the hypnotherapy offers is that it puts the person back in control of those fears, it lets them feel that they are in a safe place and in control."

Dr Biju Krishnan, who founded the Commercial Street practice with colleague Dr Lubino do Rego, said: "It may seem unusual to have a hypnotherapist at a dental practice.

"Many people still associate a visit to the dentist with a painful experience.

"Frankly, it is disheartening when you constantly have to deal with patients who have an irrational fear of treatment and assume anything you do will cause them pain."

The surgery also has an alternative therapy suite offering patients relaxation treatments such as massage.

It has flat-screen televisions in each room, so patients can watch a programme or DVD during treatment.

NHS dentists in the Capital have introduced changes in recent years designed to put anxious young patients at their ease, including toys and special education areas separate from the main treatment rooms.

Dr Krishnan said many patients were unaware of pain-free treatments which are often available today.

He added: "We can effectively repair damage to teeth without the need for any injections, drilling or the use of any sharp implements.

"It is our real hope that as people become aware of these pain-free alternatives, patient demand for these treatments will increase."