Don't Take It Personally But I Hate Dentists

Every dentist has heard these words...probably often. The reality is that most patients really don't hate dentists, they hate the inconvenience, discomfort and fears associated with the dental office. As a dentist, I can tell you I hate the medical doctor. Well, not really my physician but going there, having things done to me and not knowing what will occur just drives me nuts.

We, as dentists, can do a great deal to make this type of patient a better patient in the future. By using care and concern rather than drill and fill, we can provide a dental experience that makes a change in the patient's life that is far more important than replacing an old amalgam filling. By creating a better, less fearful patient we can provide that patient with a life long change that will make them healthier and happier.

Just think of the patients that have stayed away from the dental office because of the fears mentioned above that now have significant dental disabilities. People who have lost teeth, are in pain or can't face others because of a dentition that they are ashamed of. If we can make the dental experience more enjoyable by providing a wide variety of patient oriented services, listen to the patient's concerns and address their needs we can move a patient from "I hate all dentists" to " I just love going to the dentist". Well, maybe a dream but we can all hope.