This post was originally written over two and a half years ago! What a long way we have come in that time. It seems that almost every time I present my concept of using music through headphones for surgery, about a dozen people jump up and say “what about dental surgery? I hate being in the dentist’s chair more than anything and the drill wants to make me jump up and run as fast as I can away from the place!”
I understand! I don’t think anyone really likes going to the dentist, but it has to be done; preferably twice a year. Now people are seriously buying the pre-programmed headphones for their root canals, tooth extractions, crown settings, fillings, wisdom teeth…you name it! They are currently programmed with soothing and beautiful classical piano music, played on an acoustic Steinway grand piano, but I can put anything on them for you! I need at least a week’s notice if possible, but we can also do rush orders for a little extra. Just contact me through www.SurgicalSerenitySolutions!
Tomorrow I’m traveling to Versailles, KY to speak to a group of 25-30 dentists about our Surgical Serenity Headphones and their value in dentistry! Ever since the headphones went on the market last March (www.surgicalheadphones.com) people have been saying “Oh, those would be great in a dentist’s office!”
Yes, the dentist chair is one of the most un-favorite places to find oneself. In dentistry, the headphones would serve multiple purposes. In addition to the relaxation effect that invariably is elicited, there’s also the fact that having on headphones will block and muffle the sound of the drill, one of the most unpleasant parts of the dental procedure.
As with so many procedures, just knowing that you have multiple choices for pain management is a huge plus, and with music, there’s no novocaine numbness to wear off and no gases or narcotics to put into your bloodstream!
The benefits far outweigh the disadvantages, which are………..none!
I don’t know if there’s any music that can keep me calm in the dentist’s chair. Interesting to see what you find out.
I can see significant benefit and have used a similar concept in my own crude way. I’ve recently been undergoing several oral surgery and dental procedures. I have a good tolerance to pain but I enjoyed the relaxation and distraction. Using my iPod, I was undergoing about 2 hours of gum surgery. I only had a local … I went to sleep I was so relaxed. Dentist and assistant were very surprised. With right music selection and application, I can see a great benefit to anxious dental patients.
Thanks for your comment Stan. Dentists have long led the way with what they dubbed “audio analgesia.” I appreciate your validation of my idea! Let’s keep spreading the word!