Hypnopedia in Pediatric Dentistry: A Concept That Warrants Exploration

Scientists throughout the world have been intrigued by the concept of hypnopedia or sleep learning. This concept was initially thought to be useful in learning new languages when heard during sleep. While having been in and out of favor with researchers over the years, recent evidence has supported the possibility that hypnopedia can actually take place. Although researchers propose that no one simply can learn new facts and figures in sleep without first being aware of them, the concept of targeted memory reactivation might help to reinforce things that an individual might learn when asleep. Evidence suggests that subtle sounds presented during sleep, such as repetitive statements and encouraging words, can strengthen memory processing. This concept may be useful in pediatric dentistry in an effort to help children, especially uncooperative ones, improve their behavior while being administered dental treatment.