As early career dentists, we’re often with patients who attend our clinics with doubts and concerns – many of them influenced by an endless stream of misinformation circulating online.
Skepticism regarding the need for X-rays and fluoride hesitancies are becoming increasingly commonplace. In fact, some patients may actively resist these procedures, despite their importance in maintaining good oral health. So, how can we address these concerns in a way that lets patients feel the interaction as less as a lecture and more like a thoughtful conversation to help them navigate these challenging interactions?
Simply dismissing these concerns isn’t the answer and won’t result in a trusting relationship with patients.
Misinformation Is Everywhere
First off, I believe in acknowledging the elephant in the room: misinformation is everywhere – especially online. Whether its claims about the dangers of fluoride or exaggerated fears about radiation from X-rays or toxicities of root canal treatments, patients often arrive with misconceptions. But simply dismissing these concerns isn’t the answer and won’t result in a trusting relationship with patients.
Instead of quickly brushing off these apprehensions, take a moment to listen. Let them voice their worries. It’s important that patients feel heard before you dive into the facts.
When the conversation shifts to addressing these concerns, clarity is key. With fluoride hesitancy for example, patients may have heard about potential risks and side-effects, but we know that it’s been shown to prevent tooth decay and is a safe and important preventive public health measure especially for high caries-risk populations.
Instead of quickly brushing off these apprehensions, take a moment to listen. Let them voice their worries. It’s important that patients feel heard before you dive into the facts.
When the conversation shifts to addressing these concerns, clarity is key. With fluoride hesitancy for example, patients may have heard about potential risks and side-effects, but we know that it’s been shown to prevent tooth decay and is a safe and important preventive public health measure especially for high caries-risk populations.
Presenting this information with honesty – without sounding like we’re “selling” them on the benefits of fluoride use or the procedure (X-rays as part of the exam or root canal treatment) – can make all the difference.
Ultimately, the goal is not just to correct misconceptions but to empower patients with knowledge. For those patients who remain uncertain about fluoride, pointing them toward trusted resources – such as the American Dental Association’s website or other reputable health organizations including American Academy of Pediatrics or the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry – can offer additional peace of mind.
These resources provide clear, evidence-based information about the safety and benefits of fluoride, backed by decades of scientific research. By offering these resources, we’re giving patients the tools they need to make informed decisions about their care, all the while fostering an atmosphere of trust and transparency.
Ultimately, the goal is not just to correct misconceptions but to empower patients with knowledge. For those patients who remain uncertain about fluoride, pointing them toward trusted resources – such as the American Dental Association’s website or other reputable health organizations including American Academy of Pediatrics or the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry – can offer additional peace of mind.
These resources provide clear, evidence-based information about the safety and benefits of fluoride, backed by decades of scientific research. By offering these resources, we’re giving patients the tools they need to make informed decisions about their care, all the while fostering an atmosphere of trust and transparency.