Why It Is Important to Speak Openly With Your Dentist
By S.M. Griffin | Published on May 25, 2011 | 0 Comments
One of the keys to getting the best outcome from any dental procedure is effective communication. According to Dr. S.M. Griffin, DDS, a well-known dentist in Houston, Texas, communication between a patient and a doctor should go both ways.
As a dentist, Dr. Griffin says he tries to find out from his patients what their expectations are before going forward with any dental procedure. Once he has heard what his patients are looking for, he tries his best to describe what they can expect from their actual results. The goal, explains Dr. Griffin, is for patients to have a clear understanding of what they can expect from any procedure before diving in headfirst.
In order for Dr. Griffin to give his patients a clear idea of what they can expect from a cosmetic dental procedure, they have to be completely honest when answering any question he has. It is important for patients to respond to their dentists’ questions honestly, so that the dentist can provide the most appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. A dentist in Houston also needs to know whether his patient is taking any prescription medications or if she is pregnant, since these are factors that could influence the recommended course of treatment.
Patients should be honest about whether they have ever experienced bleeding while they were brushing, for example, since this could be a sign of periodontal disease. Whether a patient has been noticing a change in the appearance or color of his gums is important, as well, since patients themselves are more likely to notice these types of changes than dentists who see them only once or twice each year. Based on the information that the patient provides, Dr. Griffin can offer feedback on the best ways to remedy whatever problems are going on – both in the office and at home.
Having an open line of communication between a dentist and a patient is a way to build trust and reduce patient anxiety. This anxiety factor is key, says Dr. Griffin, since patients experience less anxiety when they know what to expect from a given procedure.
At Dr. Griffin’s office in Houston, he’s a dentist who provides a relaxed atmosphere where patients feel completely comfortable speaking openly about any and all symptoms they are experiencing. From the front desk staff to the dentist himself, patients who come into Dr. Griffin’s office can expect to be treated like they are part of the family from the moment they walk in.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.