what should you discuss with a patient before dental treatment

Make sure the patient is given enough information about the risks and benefits of all reasonable treatment options before treatment starts. Patients have a right to information, and their questions should be answered truthfully and fully.

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What should I consider before having a dental treatment?

Dental treatment options to be considered before patient treatment starts. Patients should be encouraged to consume these rapidly because these drinks are high in sugar and will cause decay if drunk over long periods of time. Patients should be advised to mainly drink water, sugar free drinks, or suck ice chips.

What do dentists ask when you visit your dental team?

Or they may affect the treatment you get and the materials your dental team use. So when you visit your dental team, they will ask you about your medical history – that is, any medical conditions or allergies you have, and any treatments you are having or have had. When I visit my dental team, what sort of things do they need to know about?

What do you need to know before getting a dental implant?

They are also encouraged to use gauze pads and solutions prescribed by dental professionals for an optimum result. It is also critical to ensure that the patient uses the right toothbrush and other oral care paraphernalia. After performing the procedure, proper disposal of the used materials is necessary.

What do you need to know about the dentist?

The patient needs to know that the dentist appreciates their wants and circumstances and provides personal attention. Efficiency and punctuality The patient wants to feel they are respected. Control The patient wants to feel that they are an important part of their own treatment plan. Options and alternatives

What are the different questions you should ask the patient before dental treatment?

Top 10 Questions You Should Ask Your DentistHow can I improve my smile? ... What should my oral hygiene regimen be? ... How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning? ... How can I keep my teeth whiter? ... Do I have any dental health conditions I should know about? ... Do I need any dental treatments?More items...•

What questions do dentists ask patients?

Think of yourself as a dental detective and ask the following five questions of each and every patient.Have there been any changes to your medical history? ... Do you smoke or vape? ... When was your last physical? ... What are your goals for your teeth? ... Ask about them!

How do you talk to a dental patient?

How to Speak to Dental PatientsFocus on the Needs at Hand. After brief chitchat, it's vital to bridge your conversation into the needs at hand. ... Respect Them. There's nothing worse than being treated as if you have no idea what you're talking about. ... Add Value to Your Services.

How do you prepare for dental procedures?

Prepping for Dental ProceduresAsk Questions. Your dentist just gave you a list of pre-surgery care tips they want you to follow. ... Secure A Ride. ... Dress Comfortably. ... Have a Carrying Case. ... Avoid Food and Drinks. ... Ask About Medication. ... Be Clear About After Care. ... Be Honest With Your Dentist.More items...•

How do you ask for a dentist appointment?

What do you say when you call to make a dentist appointment?Tell them if you're a new patient or a returning patient.Let them know the reason for your visit: are you in pain? ... Any preferences you have for your visit to make you feel more comfortable: male or female dentist, days and times you're available.More items...•

Why is patient communication important in dentistry?

Abstract: Good communication between patient and dentist is associated with increased efficiency and more accurate diagnosis, improved patient outcomes and satisfaction and less likelihood of complaints or litigation.

What are some important aspects of communication in the dental office?

Strategies to Improve Communication with PatientsFriendliness: Simple politeness and courtesy from their dentist.Empathy: The dentist appreciates and values the patient's wants and needs.Efficiency and punctuality: Patient's feel their time is respected.Control: Patients are a part of their treatment plans.More items...•

Why is communication important in dental nursing?

It can help to reduce anxiety, conflicts, and create positive outcomes between patients and the dental team. Ensuring that you have periodic training sessions on patient communication and related topics can help maintain a good level of effective communication between you and the patient.

What pre treatment instructions would a patient be given prior to oral surgery?

Pre-operative InstructionsYou may not have anything to eat or drink (including water) for eight (8) hours prior to the appointment.A responsible adult must accompany the patient to the office, remain in the office during the procedure, and be able to drive the patient home.More items...

What are the three grasps used by the operator?

Pen grasp: The instrument is held in the same manner as a pen. Palm grasp: The instrument is held securely in the palm of the hand. Palm-thumb grasp: The instrument is held in the palm of the hand and the thumb is used to stabilize and guide the instrument.

Can you eat before a dental procedure?

Fast. If you're going to have anesthesia, your dentist will recommend that you do not eat or drink anything for at least eight hours prior to your surgery. If you need to take medication, only use a small sip of water if necessary. Doing so will help you to avoid any risk of aspiration during surgery.

How do you greet a patient in a dental office?

0:562:02Dental Assistant Tips (How To Greet Patients) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo take great care of you okay they're gonna see Mike there I'll be with you shortly ladies. AndMoreSo take great care of you okay they're gonna see Mike there I'll be with you shortly ladies. And gentlemen that is how you do it present yourself be confident have a great attitude.

How do dentists interact with patients?

2:486:36Dental Practice Tips | How I Communicate with PatientsYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipConversation i would really encourage you to get at their eye level or sometimes even a bit under toMoreConversation i would really encourage you to get at their eye level or sometimes even a bit under to make things more comfortable.

What nonverbal communication might be seen in the dental office?

Facial expressions At the heart of non-verbal communication is facial expression. A genuine smile goes a long well. It conveys openness and a true interest in the patient. However, be aware that a fake smile delivers a message of insincerity or mockery.

How should you speak to a patient when providing advice on oral hygiene?

For example, 'I would like you to keep your teeth cleaner' is general; it provides the patient with only limited information about how you want them to change their behaviour. State more explicitly what the patient can do. For example: 'I would like you to do two things to help keep your mouth cleaner.

What to consider before dental treatment?

Dental professionals have a real opportunity to help patients with a ‘belt and braces’ approach. There are many products to recommend, prescribe and ultimately help patients. Promoting a good controlled die t is the ideal.

How do we prepare patients before treatment starts?

So how do we prepare patients before treatment starts? The priority is to help the patient to reach the end of their treatment with as little damage to the oral cavity as possible. It is important at this early stage of diagnosis that we are mindful of our patients' thoughts and feelings. We also have to understand that some patients may be reluctant to take advice as they may be psychologically affected and overawed.

What is the treatment for cancer?

This is called curative treatment. It may be used with other treatments, such as surgery or chemotherapy. If it's not possible to cure the cancer, doctors may give you radiotherapy to help relieve symptoms you have. This is called palliative treatment.

Why is chemotherapy given?

Chemotherapy can be given as a main treatment or after other treatments to reduce the risk of the cancer coming back. Or, you may have it to shrink a cancer before surgery or radiotherapy. It is sometimes combined with radiotherapy (chemoradiation). Chemotherapy is also given to control cancer that has spread and to relieve symptoms.

Why do people get chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is also given to control cancer that has spread and to relieve symptoms. The chemotherapy you have will depend on different things, such as the cancer type, the risk of it coming back, or whether it has spread. Some people have tests during treatment to check if the cancer is responding to chemotherapy.

When should you do a tooth extraction before radiotherapy?

Extractions of vulnerable teeth should be completed before radiotherapy as extractions after treatment may result in bone necrosis, especially after oral radiotherapy. Two weeks before treatment patients should be encouraged to reduce their oral bacterial load.

Can side effects of dental treatments be avoided?

The risks of the side effect of treatments need to be explained to patients, and although not all these can be avoided, they can be minimised by following advice that can be given by the dental team. The added complication to also consider is the individual reactivity of each patient to the chemicals and therapies and must be taken into account.

Who will call you after an oral diagnosis?

Following your visit for oral diagnosis, you will be assigned to a student dentist or post-doctoral resident who will be responsible for your comprehensive dental care with faculty supervision. The student/resident or a member of the staff will call you to schedule an appointment. Evening and Saturday appointments are available.

Do dental students need X-rays?

If you need X-rays they will be taken, and a dental student will examine your mouth and discuss the findings with you and a faculty member. The fee for your first visit includes the appropriate radiographs and an examination. If you have had X-rays within the last year, you may only need an oral diagnosis examination and consultation.

Do you need an oral X-ray if you have had a radiograph?

If you have had X-rays within the last year, you may only need an oral diagnosis examination and consultation. Please bring your radiographs to your first appointment; the radiology staff will evaluate their diagnostic value and determine if additional images are required.

How to keep patient from being anxious?

One of the best ways to keep your patient from becoming anxious is to keep their mind off the procedure all through. Engage them in conversation in a friendly and calming tone. Your patient most likely won’t be able to answer, but they will be listening to what you are saying and won’t be concentrating on what is going on in their mouth.

What to do when a patient is afraid of the unknown?

Patients are generally afraid of the unknown and the last things they want is a complete lack of communication until they led into an imposing room full of dental instruments and electric drills. Put your patient’s mind at ease by explaining the procedure in details, without using medical jargon, and let them know what they can expect and how long it should take.

What is the job of a dental assistant?

One of the primary duties of a dental assistant is to make sure that patients are as comfortable as possible during the procedure. Helping patients with dental anxiety is part of that responsibility and one in ten of the patients that pass through any dental practice’s doors will need a little extra care in order to make it through their visit. To help you help your more anxious patients, here are four ways you can help your patient calm during a dental procedure.

How to keep patient calm and happy?

Your efforts to keep your patient calm and happy should start as soon as they walk through the doors of your practice. Make the effort to turn your waiting room into a welcoming environment that helps them to stay calm.

Can you talk to a dentist about a procedure?

Most dental procedures are not conducive to clear communication. It’s hard to talk around the dentist’s hands and equipment. If your patient is anxious about their procedures let them know that you will be on hand at all times and that they can squeeze your hand or give you a certain hand signal if they are experiencing a significant amount of pain.

Do we need to have a dental checkup?

At some point in our lives, we will all need to undergo a dental procedure, whether it is as simple as a checkup and clean or as complex as the surgical removal of a damaged tooth. While almost nobody enjoys visiting the dentist, one in ten people in the U.S suffers from some form of extreme dental anxiety.

Can you play music during dental procedures?

If your patient has contacted you in advance to advise you that they suffer from dental anxiety, inquire if they want music played during their procedure. Music is a very effective way of calming an anxious patient and can be used to cover the sound of dental drills, which some patients find very distressing.

How does open dialogue with patients help?

Open dialogue with patients results in better patient retention and a reduction in complaints. It is estimated that 4 out of 5 calls from the public to the NSDA would have been resolved through better communication between the dentist and patient.

What happens when you include patients in your care?

If you include your patients as fully informed partners in their care, they’ll return the gesture by being loyal and continuing care with you. As an added bonus, you’ll discover more satisfaction in your work, renewed motivation and increased productivity. Increased patient satisfaction

How to greet patients in the operatory?

Try to spend a few moments to slow down and focus your attention on meeting your patient’s needs. • Be the first to greet your patient in the operatory – even if they are having hygiene work done first. • Explain what will happen during their visit and introduce them to staff members who will be providing care. • Greet every patient with a friendly smile. • Call patients by name. • Introduce any colleagues who may accompany you. • Sit at eye level. • Listen attentively to their concerns. • Don’t use technical jargon or terms that convey value judgments. • Ask permission to examine the patient. • Take the leadership role and guide the patient through the appointment.

What are the rules of thumb for patient relations?

Here are a few rules of thumb for patient relations, which you and your staff should be mindful of: Portrait of the ‘ideal’ dentist from the patient’s perspective: . Touchpoints of patient communication. Touchpoints of patient communication.

How many basic needs are there?

While there are a multitude of patient needs – six basic needs stand out:

What happens if a patient perceives care at a certain level but expects something more or different?

If your patient perceives care at a certain level but expected something more or different, then they will be dissatisfied. Both perception and expectation are states of mind and you need to consider these if you want to keep your patients happy.

How does medical evidence help patients?

Medical evidence has demonstrated a positive association between a patient’s satisfaction with the care they receive and their provider’s ability and willingness to communicate and empathize with them. Reduced complaints . Open dialogue with patients results in better patient retention and a reduction in complaints.

What to do if your jaw hurts while cleaning?

If your jaw hurts or you have mouth pain while they're cleaning, let the hygienist know. You can have rest breaks when you need them.

What is the best treatment for a tooth that has a swelling inside?

This treatment involves opening the tooth and cleaning the inside before closing it back up. You may need to see a specialist called an endodontist.

What do dental hygienists do?

A dental hygienist covers your chest with a plastic or paper cloth, and you may get eye shields to wear, too. You'll see a tray of metal and perhaps ultrasonic tools. The hygienist uses these, working a tooth at a time, to scrape off any hard buildup of plaque and tartar on the surfaces and along your gumline. They may floss between your teeth, too.

What to do if your mouth is sore?

If your mouth is sore, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers.

Do you need crowns for cavities?

You may need fillings to close up cavities in the teeth before they get larger. For more serious decay, crowns surround and cover the core of the damaged tooth, keeping the root in place. This "cap" is cemented in place to look and feel like the real thing.

Do dentists need a payment plan?

Whatever plan of care your dentist recommends, you will also need a plan for paying for the work . For more complex procedures, you may be able to set up a payment plan to cover your part of the cost.

Can you expect the same care as a routine dentist?

If it's been a while since you've seen the dentist, you can expect the same care as a routine visit, as well as some extras.

How to clean your mouth after a toothache?

Gently brush your teeth on all sides with a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months. Use small circular motions and short back-and-forth strokes. Brush carefully and gently along your gum line. Lightly brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to help keep your mouth clean.

How to eat with dentures?

When learning to eat with dentures, it may be easier if you: Start with soft, non-sticky food. Cut your food into small pieces. Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth.

What to do if your gums hurt when you brush?

See your dentist if brushing or flossing causes your gums to bleed or hurts your mouth. If you have trouble flossing, a floss holder may help. Ask your dentist to show you the right way to floss.

Why do my gums bleed?

Gum Disease. Gum disease begins when plaque builds up along and under your gum line. Plaque causes an infection that hurts the gum and bone that hold your teeth in place. A mild form of gum disease may make your gums red, tender, and more likely to bleed.

How to keep dentures clean?

Avoid small crunchy foods that can get trapped under the dentures and hurt your gums. Brush dentures every day with a denture-care product, and soak them in water or a denture-cleansing liquid at night.

How to fix gingivitis?

This problem, called gingivitis, can often be fixed by brushing and flossing every day . A more severe form of gum disease, called periodontitis, must be treated by a dentist. If not treated, this infection can lead to sore, bleeding gums, painful chewing problems, and even tooth loss. To prevent gum disease:

Why do you need fluoride toothpaste?

Use fluoride toothpaste to protect your teeth from decay. If you are at a higher risk for tooth decay (for example, if you have a dry mouth because of a condition you have or medicines you take), you might need more fluoride.

When I visit my dental team, what sort of things do they need to know about?

They will also want to know if you have any illnesses or conditions, take any regular drugs or medications, and have any allergies.

Why might my dentist need to know about any operations that I may have had?

Not every operation will be important. But sometimes things that you may not realise can affect your oral health and how the dentist is able to treat you.

What does my medical history have to do with my oral health?

Some medical conditions and drugs can affect your oral health. Or they may affect the treatment you get and the materials your dental team use. So when you visit your dental team, they will ask you about your medical history – that is, any medical conditions or allergies you have, and any treatments you are having or have had.

Is it important to tell my dentist if I have asthma?

Yes. The fact that you have asthma will be part of your medical history. Remember to take your inhaler to every dental appointment and tell the dental team if you feel unwell or out of breath.

How can vomiting during pregnancy, or from having an eating disorder, affect my teeth?

Vomiting can cause stomach acid to come into contact with your teeth. The front teeth are most likely to be affected, and over time the enamel of the teeth can be worn away. This is called ‘ dental erosion ’ and leads to sensitivity and discolouration as the yellower dentine starts to show through the enamel.

Why do my dental team need to know if I am allergic to anything?

Many people are allergic to certain drugs such as penicillin and it is important that you tell your dental team about any drug allergies you have. Some people are also allergic to latex (rubber).

Why do my dental team need to know if I have haemophilia?

If you have haemophilia and you need a treatment that may cause you to bleed, such as an extraction, you will usually be referred to a specialist. This is to make sure you do not have any complications and you get the treatment you need safely.

Why is it important to maintain good dental hygiene?

Maintaining proper dental habits play an extensive role in the prevention, treatment, and recovery from diseases. Like most areas in our bodies, our mouth is teeming with bacteria, most of which are harmless. However, since the oral cavity is the gateway to our respiratory and digestive systems, it can also be a passageway for harmful diseases.

What to do if you suspect plaque build up?

If plaque build-up and other dental concerns are suspected, it is best to consult with a dental professional for immediate treatment. Consequently, each care personnel should do a report and documentation of their findings after every procedure.

Why do unconscious patients need oral care?

Oral Care for Unconscious Patient. According to experts, an unconscious patient usually breathes through their oral cavity. This situation causes secretions to dry out more quickly. In this case, they will require more frequent oral care to maintain a healthy state.

Why is oral hygiene important?

Oral hygiene, also known as mouth care, is one of the most fundamental aspects of medical care. Keeping the mouth and teeth clean helps in protecting patients from infections and allows for a faster recovery. In maintaining oral care for an unconscious patient, dental care procedures and protocols are more critical .

What happens if you don't have good oral hygiene?

Without good oral hygiene, bacteria may build up to the point that they cause oral diseases, including tooth decay and gum disease. When it comes to delivering good oral treatment and encouraging oral hygiene in an unconscious or bedridden patient, each healthcare team member has a critical responsibility.

How does oral hygiene help elderly patients?

This technique is usually applicable for elderly and bedridden individuals. It contributes to improving patient care services by enabling the patient to perform their oral care routines without depending on others. There will be an improvement in patient self-esteem, and it helps maintain their functional abilities.

Why is it important to use medical devices?

Use of Medical Devices. Choosing appropriate devices will make it easier for healthcare providers to assist patients with their oral care needs. Depending on the patient’s current status, some medical institutions offer specialized equipment and provisions to adapt to the patient’s capacity.

How can dental professionals promote oral health?

Dental professionals can emphasize to patients the importance of adhering to their treatment regimens and discuss how this can promote oral health. With consent to contact medical and support teams, oral health professionals can communicate any oral issues or concerns. In turn, the medical and support teams can underscore the importance ...

What is the focus of dental team?

The focus should be on prevention, early identification, and linkage and retention to primary care, which , by definition, includes oral health services. The dental team continues to be a vital component in each of these areas. 2. HIV is a retrovirus that leads to immune deficiency in humans.

How often should a dental lab be checked for HIV?

A measure of patients’ CD4, or Tcell count and viral load should be included in a referral and/or medical history, as most patients have these labs checked every six months. The cascade’s definition of retention is two medical visits at least three months apart within one year. Many patients will know their CD4 count and viral load information. Many asymptomatic patients with undetectable HIV viral load and CD4 counts greater than 300 cells/mm 3 will have these labs taken on an annual basis.

How does oral health care help with HIV?

Many individuals are unaware of their HIV status, providing the opportunity for the oral health care team to offer HIV screening. Several studies have revealed positive patient attitudes when asked if they would be willing to be screened for HIV infection in the dental setting. 12–14 Research has demonstrated that when individuals are aware of their HIV-positive status, they are less likely to engage in behaviors that place themselves or others at risk. 15 Also, early entry into care and treatment leads to better health outcomes. Oral health professionals may be among the first to notice signs and symptoms of HIV infection. This provides the opportunity to discuss the possibility of HIV exposure, HIV testing history, and whether the patient would consent to rapid testing for HIV. 12–14

How does oral health integrate into primary care?

The oral health care team is well positioned to be integrated into primary care practice. Oral health professionals can be a vital component in the recognition of and testing for medical conditions, such as HIV, in the dental setting. The federal Health Resources and Service Administration is focusing on this integration and has developed recommendations and resources to assist in this effort. There have been webinars and curricula established for primary care to integrate oral health care into their practices. Concurrently, oral health professionals can assist primary care through the recommendations proposed in this article.

Why is the intersection of oral-systemic associations important?

This is where the intersection of oral-systemic associations is important. The dental team should advise patients to consent to communications across their health care teams. During the taking of a medical history, clinicians should find out the name of the patient’s medical provider.