We’re proud to share that Dr. John H. Duthie, alongside co-authors Dr. Jodie Nelson and Dr. Elvira Lang, has been featured in the Primary Dental Journal (Spring 2025 edition) with an insightful article titled “Procedural Hypnosis: A Powerful Tool for Reducing Stress, Anxiety and Pain in Clinical Dental Care.”
🔽 Click here to download the full article (PDF)
What Is Procedural Hypnosis?
Many patients feel nervous or anxious when visiting the dentist – and it’s no surprise, given the clinical environment and nature of treatment. But what if a few words, carefully chosen, could help calm that fear?
Procedural hypnosis is not the dramatic hypnosis you might see on TV. Instead, it’s a practical communication technique used by dental professionals to reduce a patient’s stress and pain. It involves quick, calming language and methods to help patients feel more in control during procedures – even when time is tight.
Why It Matters
The article highlights how even brief interactions – such as choosing the right words or offering guided breathing techniques – can significantly reduce patient discomfort and anxiety. This benefits everyone:
- For patients: Less pain, lower anxiety, quicker recovery.
- For dental teams: Better communication, smoother procedures, and improved job satisfaction.
- For practices: Happier patients, fewer missed appointments, and better business outcomes.
A Step Toward Better Dental Experiences
The research also shows that when staff receive even short training in these techniques, the impact is substantial. Patients become calmer, procedures are easier, and the whole practice runs more efficiently. Resources like the Comfort Talk® app can help implement these techniques seamlessly.
We’re delighted to contribute to the growing movement of compassionate, patient-focused dental care. If you’d like to know more or are curious about how procedural hypnosis could be part of your dental experience, get in touch with us today!