It can be difficult to transition from dental school to your first dental practice. New dentists need to take some time to prepare for the changes that come with their new position. What should new dental professionals know when dealing with their patients? Let’s take a look at 10 basic steps every dental professional should remember to do for a better patient experience.
1. Be truthful
Dentists should not be afraid to tell their patients the truth, even if it’s difficult for them to hear. Patients should be well informed about the procedures being done. If they’re not, they may feel overwhelmed or unprepared for what will happen. They could also have a negative reaction that could lead them to change their mind about something that’s necessary. If a dentist is not honest with their patients, they risk losing them.
2. Be informative
Patients need to be able to trust their dentist. If they can’t, they may not feel comfortable going in for future treatments, even if it’s something as simple as a digital x-ray. With no trust, they’ll be uneasy during appointments. Their discomfort may lead to increased pain, which can slow down the healing process. No one wants nervous or anxious patients entering their offices for an important procedure.
3. Remain unbiased
A lot of people have reservations about going to the dentist. They’re afraid of being judged for their dental choices or the quality of their teeth. Dentists should not judge patients based on these things. They should do what’s best for people and their oral health goals, no matter in what condition the patient enters your office.
4. Focus on each patient
Dental professionals should not discuss their own dental problems with patients. This is because dentists are in a position of power while they’re treating patients. It’s important for patients to be able to trust their dentist, which is difficult if they realize their dentist has his or her own dental issues.
5. Dress and act professionally
Always look and behave professionally. It is not appropriate for dentists to wear jeans, sneakers, or flip-flops when they’re seeing patients. It is also important for dentists to be patient and kind when they’re with patients. They should always smile and speak kindly so that patients will feel at ease while in their office.
6. Stick to the schedule
Patients often come to the dentist expecting to be seen right away, but this is not always possible. Sometimes it takes patients longer than expected to get ready for their appointment, and other times it takes the dentist longer than expected to finish up with another patient. But dental professionals should do their best to be respectful of these time constraints and not keep patients waiting too long.
7. Be transparent about pricing
Dentists should keep patients updated on procedures and pricing. They should be clear about whether they’re in-network or out-of-network, and if they’re out-of-network, they should inform patients ahead of time how much a procedure will cost. Patients like to know how much something costs before it’s done. They also like to know what to expect during the procedure.
8. Ask questions
Patients are often too embarrassed to ask questions about their dental hygiene, but this is the healthiest way to explore the potential sources of their oral health problems. It's also important to know if they’ve had any past oral surgery, gum disease, or loose teeth. Patients should be able to make an informed decision about whether they want to participate in their own dental care.
9. Create a comfortable environment
You have a responsibility to your patients to treat them with dignity and respect. Unfortunately, many people have negative perceptions of dental care and worry about being judged by their dentist. It can be difficult for patients to feel comfortable in a dental office because they might not want the dentist to see their teeth, or they won’t ask for information about their diet as it related to their oral health. As a result, it’s important that your office feel welcoming and makes people feel comfortable the moment they walk in the door. Make your office visually appealing and greet patients warmly when they come in.
10. Schedule a follow-up appointment
You want patients to feel they’re welcome back to your office, and you want them to understand the importance of regular oral care. Make a point to schedule their next appointment before they leave your office. Casually chat with them about the importance of keeping this appointment, and how you look forward to seeing them again.
