Case acceptance, or the percentage of patients who decide to move forward with treatment, is a crucial part of any successful dental practice. Patients must not only understand their treatment needs but also feel comfortable and confident about the recommended procedures. All of that said, while dentists play a key role in presenting treatment plans, dental assistants are often the unsung heroes in helping patients commit to necessary treatment! From building patient trust to reinforcing the importance of care, dental assistants have a large influence on case acceptance – here’s how they can make a big difference.
1. Establishing Trust and a Rapport with Patients
Patients are more likely to accept treatment when they feel comfortable with the entire dental team, period. Dental assistants spend a lot of one-on-one time with patients, which makes them key players in building relationships and addressing any dental-related stress or anxiety. A friendly, reassuring presence can help patients feel much more at ease, making them more open to discussing and agreeing to treatment recommendations. They can also follow up with them after their treatment, showcasing further care and concern for their wellness. Plus, dental assistants should want all of their patients to feel so welcome that they recommend the practice to their friends and families – a little trust and friendliness go a long way in this regard!
2. Reinforcing the Dentist’s Recommendations
After the dentist presents a treatment plan, a dental assistant can help reinforce it by answering any follow-up questions a patient might have and explaining things in a way that makes more sense to them. Sometimes, patients hesitate to ask the dentist directly for clarification, but they may feel more comfortable asking a dental assistant they’re already very friendly with! A skilled dental assistant can reiterate the importance of treatment and how it directly benefits a patient’s oral health, or even share other positive success stories to encourage them further.
3. Educating Patients About Their Oral Health
Many patients decline treatment simply because they don’t fully understand why they need it – and this lack of education can lead to serious oral health issues down the road. Dental assistants can bridge this gap by providing clear, patient-friendly education about their dental conditions, their treatment options, and how to better maintain your smile at home through routine brushing and flossing. They can demonstrate a lot of this information using diagrams, models, or photos taken using intraoral cameras.
When a patient says “absolutely” to getting treatment, it’s often because of the teamwork between the dentist and their dental assistants. With the right approach, the lasting impact on patient care that dental assistants make can be outstanding and profound!
About the Green Country School of Dental Assisting
Our team here at the Green Country School of Dental Assisting has assisted countless dental assistants in Claremore and the surrounding area over the years, and if you’re ready to take your first exciting steps in your new dental assisting career, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you along the way. To request additional enrollment information, please reach out online or call today for assistance! Telephone: (918) 343-7188.