The Dentist-Patient Relationship II
Dr. Smile 24 March, 2008
(5) Comment 13. How can the dentist help the patient to relate more information or to talk about a certain issue in greater depth?
A communication technique called facilitation by reflection is helpful. One simply repeats the last word or phrase that was spoken in a questioning tone of voice. Thus when a patient says, “I am petrified of dentists,” the dentist responds,
“Petrified of dentists?” The patient usually elaborates. The goal is to go from generalization to the specific fear to the origin of the fear. The process is therapeutic and allows fears to be reduced or diminished as patients gain insight into their feelings.
14. How should one construct suggestions that help patients to alter their behavior or that influence the outcome of a command?
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The Dentist-Patient Relationship
Dr. Smile 24 March, 2008
(3) Comment After you seat the patient, a 42-year-old woman, she turns to you and says glibly, “Doctor, I don’t like dentists.” How should you respond?
Tip: The patient presents with a gross generalization. Distortions and deletions of information need to be explored. Not liking you, the dentist, whom she has never met before, is not a clear representation of what she is trying to say. Start the interview with questioning surprise in your voice as you cause her to reflect by repeating her phrasing, “You don’t like dentists?,” with the expectation that she will elaborate. Probably she has had a bad experience, and by proceeding from the generalization to the specific, communication will advance. It is important to do active listening and to allow the patient who is somewhat belligerent to ventilate her thoughts and feelings. You thereby show that you are different perhaps from a previous dentist who may not have developed listening skills and left the patient with a negative view of all dentists. The goals are to enhance communication, to develop trust and rap port, and to start a new chapter in the patient’s dental experience.
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Handle Dental Phobia easily!
Dr. Smile 19 February, 2008
(4) Comment The most common reasons that people say are associated with apprehensiveness can vary. Here are some examples with possible solutions:
1. You went to a dentist. He did a filling. It hurt. You never went back. Now you’re very apprehensive. It didn’t work out the last time. What should you do now?
Just because it didn’t go well the last time does not mean it is going to be bad the next time. It can work out well with another dentist. On the other hand, nobody can possibly have a 100% satisfied patient pool. It is not uncommon to experience some degree of discomfort during or after an involved procedure. One unpleasant incident does not mean that the dentist is incompetent. As long as you know your priorities and the dentist is open to your input, feel free to discuss the issue. If you don’t, it will keep on happening no matter how many times you switch your dentist. If you do not inform, the dentist may not even realize what is bothering you. Remember, good communication helps in resolving many problems. Talk about your concerns. You can decide whether to continue there or not based on how the dentist is responding to your concerns. You can sense if you’re comfortable with the outcome.
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