IDEAS WORTH THINKING ABOUT
Practical ideas for better dentistry.
Thinking on case acceptance and efficiency to create a more successful practice.
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Be a blank slate
A patient wanted to tell me what another dentist had recommended. I stopped her. I wanted to give her a genuinely independent second opinion.
A lesson from Judge Judy
A sharp exchange on Judge Judy offers a lesson in discussing dental fees. I explore how a few uncertain words can undermine a patient’s confidence.
Are you too modest?
Good dentistry deserves to be noticed. I share three simple ways to help patients appreciate the quality of your work without sounding boastful.
An espresso machine
An espresso machine might seem a small addition to a dental practice. I explain why it can make a lasting impression on your patients.
Making your own album
Patients want to see what treatment can achieve. An album of your own cases outperforms expensive technology and detailed explanations.
A closing question
You’ve explained the treatment options and asked for a decision. What you do next matters. In fact it’s vital.
Whose choice is it?
Are patients choosing treatment based on their needs or your preferences? The way you explain the options may be steering them more than you realise.
Dragged through a hedge backwards
Patients start judging our competence before we pick up an instrument. A moment in a doctor’s waiting room reminded me how much appearances matter.
Passive aggressive
There’s a veneer of politeness, yet patients leave feeling like a nuisance. Do you have passive aggressive staff? Your patients may notice before you do.
If you must speak…
Saying more doesn’t always help patients trust you. I share a simple communication rule that keeps conversations on track, even during a busy day.
Listen without judgement
Correcting a patient too quickly can make them more resistant. I share a simple listening habit that creates space for a different treatment conversation.
“No” is a good place to be
Patients who feel free to decline treatment may feel more comfortable accepting it. Discover why genuinely accepting no can change your approach to case acceptance.
Being right isn’t enough
A correct diagnosis can still leave a patient feeling unheard. Taking time to listen, examine and explain helps turn clinical confidence into patient trust.
Permanent crowns
Calling dentistry permanent creates expectations no restoration can meet. More accurate language helps patients understand treatment longevity and prevents disappointment years later.
How not to quote a fee
Unexpected costs destroy trust. Quote dental fees all-inclusively, allow for contingencies and ensure patients understand the complete financial commitment before treatment begins.
Showing x-rays to patients
Showing patients their x-rays may feel persuasive, but images they cannot interpret often create confusion, uncertainty and resistance instead of trust.