Evaluation of Patients Knowledge about Clinical Hypnosis in Dentistry

• Published in: International dental journal Vol. 74; p. S220
• Main Authors: Elmas, Mustafa Yiğit, Yanıkoğlu, Nuran, Sağsöz, Nurdan Polat
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Inc 01-10-2024
• ISSN: 0020-6539
• DOI: 10.1016/j.identj.2024.07.056

Hypnodontics, the application of hypnosis in dentistry, is gaining attention for its potential in alleviating dental anxiety and enhancing patient cooperation. This study aims to assess the knowledge and opinions of patients attending a prosthodontic clinic regarding hypnodontic applications.
A mass questionnaire survey was conducted among 200 randomly selected patients at the Prosthodontics Clinic of Atatürk University Faculty of Dentistry. The survey included questions on sociodemographic data, awareness of alternative and complementary medicine, familiarity with clinical hypnosis, and beliefs about hypnodontic practices. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at p < 0.050.
Findings revealed that 69.5% of participants had heard of clinical hypnosis or hypnotherapy, while 83.5% were unfamiliar with traditional and complementary medicine. Knowledge gaps were identified, particularly in understanding the nature of clinical hypnosis. For instance, only 25.5% of respondents were aware of clinical hypnosis applications in dentistry. Significant differences were observed in responses based on gender and education level.
The study highlights a need for increased patient education on hypnodontics. Physicians, dentists and auxiliaries should play a crucial role in providing accurate information to enhance patient awareness and facilitate informed decision-making regarding complementary medical practices like hypnosis.