A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Dentist : 5 Ways to Change the Way Patients Perceive You

Funny dentists.  Really?!?  Isn’t that an oxymoron?

Let’s face it…thinking of something funny does not usually conjure up images of dentists.  But, why not?  Why can’t we as dentists turn the imagery of the dental profession around…completely. Why cant we be thought of as funny and, maybe more importantly, fun to be with.

I’m not talking about stand up comedy here.  A certain special dentist whom I adored and who will remain nameless (cough…Dad…cough) had often been accused of putting a few hundred cotton rolls into his beloved patient’s mouths and then proceed to tell jokes.  Since not everyone is as good at telling jokes as my Dad was, there has to be a better solution.

So, what can we do?  How can we as dentists make a visit to the dentist be more fun.  Here are five ways that you can help to change the way that your patients perceive you.

1.) Listen- I don’t mean give a quick listen to your robotic “How are you?”…I mean really listen.  Sit with your chair facing your patient and make sure that your mask and gloves are not on yet.  Find out what your patient has been up to and make note of it…literally…when you are doing your charting after the appointment, make sure to include pertinent information about work, family, hobbies or pets that the patient may have shared with you for future reference.  They are always so impressed when you ask about something that they shared at a previous visit.

2.) Slow down – I know…time is money and especially in this economy, volume matters.  I’m not talking about slowing down your procedure speed.  I’m talking about creating an atmosphere of calm and efficiency such that there is no sense of “hurry up …on to the next patient” perceived.

3.) Lighten up – You don’t have to be that stand up comedian, but you don’t have to be so serious either.  You are being sought after for your expertise in your dental knowledge and your clinical expertise…that doesn’t mean that you have to have a dour expression.  Laugh…kid around.  Make the patient feel relaxed and comfortable with you as a person as well as an expert.

4.) Engage – Patients tend to tense up if everything is quiet and stiff.  They think that something is going wrong with their procedure.  Engage in light banter with your assistant.  Create a happy and warm atmosphere that relaxes the patient.  Patients that see happiness among the staff and the dentist feel safer and calmer.

5.) Music – Have music on in the background.  Music that you can hum to.  Music that is somewhat recognizable or soothing.  Music fills a room and creates an aura of comfort.  Keep it light and keep it soft but keep it on.

These are tips that I have learned over the years that have helped me to develop warm and long lasting relationships with my patients.  Dr. Carolyn Demas and Dr. Matt Demas continue to create an atmosphere of a dental office that is actually fun to go to.  We completely understand just how valuable each of our patients are to us and we aim to show them the respect and consideration that they all deserve.

And now, for something completely different…click here.  See? Dentists can be funny!!