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Methods Used to Deal with Dental Phobia |
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Hypnosis
Unless your dentist is also skilled in hypnosis, you will have to hire a professional hypnotist to help you get through the procedure. Some hypnotists will teach you how to hypnotize yourself, but this is done is several sessions not just one, so cost is a factor. Self-hypnosis does work, and it teaches you to understand the tremendous reserve our bodies have inside to help us cope with stress, trauma and fear. The therapist will usually include a tape of soothing music to lead you into the state of hypnosis, so you will need a tape recorder, and earphones during the dental procedure in order to maintain that state. Your hypnotist will often suggest in conjunction with their help, that you also seek out a qualified counselor who can help you work through your fears. Again, you are looking at the cost factor here. But if your fears are so high that you can’t work through them, you will need the guidance and the support these two specialists can offer.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture discovered in China around 2598 BC is an ancient form of medicine where heated needles are inserted into various parts of your body to achieve certain desirable and healing results. These points of entry are known as Acupoints.
According to the ancient way, each person’s body has a path of energy that flows in a certain direction. This energy is called Qi (pronounced chee). Following these specific pathways or Meridians, the energy when you are injured, stressed, or upset, this flow of energy is interrupted and thrown off-course. Your body is then thown off-balance. The needles are used to redirect, and realign the flow of energy.
When I decided to finally do something about the massive headaches I was experiencing due to an accident, I decided to try acupuncture, because conventional medications were failing me. My acupuncturist explained to me that the needles are like sign posts for a confused traveler. You put the signposts in the body, and the traveler slowly understands where the wrong turn was made and can continue forward. I know that after every treatment I had, I would come home and drop on the bed and sleep like a stone. To this day, I have not had a major headache since I stopped treatment. So, if you are fortunate enough to find a dentist that also offers acupuncture. I would encourage you to go this route. I am not saying I understand it, but I do believe in it and the incredible healing power it can generate. They can also use the needles to block the flow of energy and deaden the nerves so you don’t feel the pain. |
