So, we have covered that there are clinical issues that can happen and that can be corrected by good treatment planning and execution, using technology and science and evidence-based surgery. Part two of this series was on financial issues that should always be very clear from day one. And now, part three, is about addressing the emotional space between you and your patients, and how to avoid any problems throughout the treatment.
This is one the trickiest parts of our job, because we can never really know what is the true state of emotions that our patients find themselves in.
Depression is a very common disease in the XXIth century, and it goes undiagnosed many times. A lot of our patients seem to think that their dental treatment will solve other problems in other areas of their lives. And the truth is that a beautiful smile can boost a person’s ego and social profile, of course, because a good smile is a source of confidence, but throughout the treatment there are many, many things that can create emotional tension between you and your patient. One of those is, for example, things taking longer than expected, something not going according to plan, and any other unexpected surprise that can happen while being treated. It also happens that friends criticize the aesthetics, or the overall aesthetic outcome not being what was expected.
So, again, it all comes down to expectation, and managing your patient’s expectations is one of the hardest things to do. It really comes through with years of experience and clinical work. So, this is why it is incredibly important to create bonds with your patient!
Spend time with them, talk with them and make sure everybody’s on the same page.
Read also:
- How to maintain a healthy relationship with your patient – Part I
- On superbugs, antibiotics and self-medication
- Living in the Dark Ages: oral care 700 years ago was not so bad
- Thank you for not smoking (your teeth will thank you too)
- “We use our mouth to smile, eat and love” – Interview with Saúda Magazine
- What would you say to God if you met him?
