The old terms, animal magnetism, clairvoyance and mesmerism, have gradually come to be called hypnotism. They were used principally by charlatans, and often for wrong purposes, and so came into disrepute. It was supposed that the operator had some supernatural power.
Prof. Bernheim says hypnotism is produced by what he calls suggestion. The operator says certain things, and the patient imagines them to be true. During this time all the functions are normal, except the first time, when there is usually more or less excitement. The proportion of persons susceptible to hypnotism is placed at about 18 per cent. in both sexes.
This has been used with considerable success in organic lesions, hysteric, neuralgic and rheumatic affections. It is difficult to produce when an operation is in view.
There is still considerable superstition and ignorance regarding hypnotism, and it is yet a field for study. A professional hypnotist is called an infidel, a crank and all such bad names. Its abuse has brought it into disfavor. Every time it is used the patient becomes more susceptible to its influence. Hypnotism should not be used in dental practice until it has a better name and more is known about it, but it would be quite in place at a clinic.
Discussion—Dr. E. G. Betty:—Dr. Dunn says hypnotism is a physiological process, but that it may be successful, the mind must be calm.
Dr. D. R. Jennings:—Here is an article from a paper on hypnotism, which I will read. The author holds that strong-willed persons become self-hypnotized when they will do a thing. It becomes almost impossible for them to break away from its influence. When the time comes, they do it as though some blind force was controlling them.
Dr. Jennings could see no difference between mesmerism and hypnotism. Christian Science is another of the same kind and just as effective.
Dr. H. A. Smith:—Hypnotism should not yet be used in dental practice. It is dangerous.
Dr. W. H. Whitslar:—Hypnotism is a sleep and is not induced by supernatural powers. The patient becomes afraid of the operator after its use. The Russian and French governments have passed laws regulating the practice of hypnotism.
It should not be used in the dental office at this time.