Posts Taggededucate

Expanding the Perio-Focused Approach – Part I

I know dentists who won’t even administer anesthetic without their assistant helping them. Okay, I won’t pick on you, but it’s true. My point is, as the doctor, you have the power to make sure your hygienist has the help s/he needs. I’m encouraging you to take the lead here. Yes, it helps the hygienist and, more importantly, it supports the practice as a whole by getting necessary periodontal therapy diagnosed early and providing excellence in patient care. To get the ball rolling, I recommend incorporating this as a component in every morning huddle.

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Proven Recipe for Happily Returning Patients

I know, we like to think we’re “doing our job” by “educating our patients” and making sure they “understand” how “important it is that they ______”. The blank can be filled-in with all kinds of things such as, floss, brush at least 2 times a day, rinse with our super galactic formula rinse, complete treatment…UGH!!! Do you know how completely uninspiring all of that is for our patients? Do you think they don’t know what they “should” be doing?

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All Lit Up

Patients are always interested in new treatment options. Most patients have heard of lasers in dentistry, but not sure how they can be used. As with any new treatment options, there is the need to explain the treatment plan recommendations and the outcome of what to expect with a soft tissue laser. Especially when using visual aids, hygienists find it very easy to explain how laser therapy will enhance their treatment. This is where patient education is a must. By creating value for our patients, they understand and are willing to accept laser therapy for their dental care.

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