I heard a story once of a dentist that got a phone call from a colleague telling him about a patient he was referring. It was a heads up call to let the dentist know that the patient was elderly and could be a challenge Not long after that the patient appointed, the dentist happened … Continue reading Population Trends and the Modern Dentist
Tag: dental patients
Chronic Disease, the Internet, and Your Patients
Here is some interesting data gathered by the Pew Research Center: (Source: Pew Research Center) This means that first, a super-majority of people 50 years and older live with at least one significant health condition that impacts their lives. Second, another super-majority (and growing) of just about everyone use the internet in their day-to-day life. What implications could these two … Continue reading Chronic Disease, the Internet, and Your Patients
Your First Day in Practice: Patient #1
With a new class of dentists just graduating from dental school all around the U.S., it seems apropos to think about what it will be like for them to begin practicing. As a former new dentist, I know it’s an exciting time that can also be quite daunting. Let's consider four different types of patients a … Continue reading Your First Day in Practice: Patient #1
Patient emergencies in the dental office: They happen. Be ready.
Imagine the 32 year female in your office on a typical morning. My patient was new and was referred because of medical history issues that included a seizure disorder. No sooner had I entered the room to visit with the patient and her mother then indeed she had a seizure. Her mother assured me that … Continue reading Patient emergencies in the dental office: They happen. Be ready.
Dental Office Time Management and Patient Care Series: Patient Packets
Not long ago I went to a car dealership. Before leaving I picked up a beautiful full color, information clad brochure that looked expensive. Very nice and informative. Another day I took my dog to the veterinarian. During the visit the technician entered information into the patient record and after the doctor finished I was … Continue reading Dental Office Time Management and Patient Care Series: Patient Packets
Caring for Special Needs Patients and their Families: The Examination and After Care
In our practices we all encounter special needs patients and their families. Many dentists excel in managing the challenges present in caring for special needs patients, but what about their families? This is the second installment (if you missed it, read Part 1 here) of a few tips I have learned in more than thirty years of … Continue reading Caring for Special Needs Patients and their Families: The Examination and After Care