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Children’s hypnosis and special behaviour guidance

Parent information on hypnotic behaviour guidance

A visit to the dentist should be as pleasant as possible – both for you as parents and for your child. In order to convey a positive feeling, we adjust our work to your child’s age and developmental stage.

We apply relaxation techniques used in modern clinical hypnosis.

What is a trance?

During the normal state of consciousness people perceive many different stimuli simultaneously.

Our techniques aim at helping a person focus their attention on one specific topic, thereby blocking out undesirable thoughts. In everyday life, this condition is known as an “everyday trance”, a condition that may occur while running, reading an exciting book, during intensive playtime or while watching a TV programme.

To achieve this:

  • Only positive terms are used to describe the applied instruments and treatments, for example, teeth are being “stroked” or “showered”; and your child is continuously being praised.

  • We tell stories that draw children’s attention away from the fact that they are undergoing dental treatment. To do so, we deliberately use somewhat “confusing” vocabulary and stories. The so-called confusion technique is a very effective method used to distract from the actual treatment.

  • We maintain physical contact with your child. Holding – in the sense of “giving them something to hold on to” – provides a sense of safety and comfort and allows for a safe treatment. There are special techniques to induce and intensify a state of trance (for example, light pressure at the temples).

  • We kindly ask you to allow us to guide your child, even if this at the moment may seem unclear to you.

How can I assist my child?

Children can be in a state of trance even when their eyes are open. Furthermore, it is normal if they feel something (vibration, tickling) during treatment. In the event that we have to perform a painful procedure, the tooth will be numbed – please do not mention the work “injection”. Your child should notice as little as possible.

After the treatment, please allow the team to alter any unpleasant feelings through positive impressions. Praise your child for what he or she has achieved, even if it is only a minor thing. You will thereby help your child build positive experiences.

  • Do not promise too much prior to the treatment, this usually creates more pressure

  • Avoid using negative phrasing! If you say: “you don’t have to be afraid!” or “it won’t hurt”, your child understands the words “afraid” and “it hurts”. The subconscious should be free of any negativity!

  • You do not have to prepare your child specifically. Everything will be explained and demonstrated during treatment. If you talk about your own experience at the dentist, please be positive.

  • Should you be asked to let your child sit on your lap or to hold his or her hand during treatment, please avoid fidgeting with them! This increases the child’s sensitivity while steady hands create a sense of security and comfort.

Contact us.

We look forward to you. Make an appointment with us, by phone, email or use our contact form.

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