Creating a Comforting Environment for Your Dental Patients
In dentistry your mind may go in different directions when you think of creating comfort for your patients. Controlling anxiety and handling pain might come to mind initially. But what about creating an overall comforting environment — one that welcomes your patients, supports excellent care, and keeps them coming back to you and referring others.
To establish a comforting patient environment, here are a few tried-and-true tips from more than 30 years in the dental and image industries.
Greet Them Pleasantly – Keep in mind that your patients are there for you to care for them. A simple acknowledgment of their presence with a friendly “Hello” acknowledges that they chose your practice. A soft, direct vocal greeting, accompanied by a smile and eye contact, from the front desk staff will set the tone for the appointment.
Use Their Name – Dale Carnegie noted, “A person’s name is to him or her the sweetest and most important sound in any language.” “Hello Mary, welcome.” “Hello Patrick; my name is Sandi. I’ll be seeing you for your appointment today.” “The doctor will be right in to see you, Sally.” People like and need to hear their name, and it’s a sign of courtesy.
Maintain Clear, Frequent Communication – Keeping your patients informed throughout the visit is key — from reception, to clinical care, to checking out. Describe what will happen along the way and promptly answer any questions. This will reduce patient anxiety and establish trust in the care you’re providing.
Although additional options are available to create comfort for your patients (e.g., music and televisions, extra padded chairs and pillows), these simple soft skills offer a cost-free, sincere option to establishing and supporting their comfort.
