The Psychology of the Dentist-Patient Relationship acquaints dentists with the underlying interpersonal dynamics of their professional work. The author has reviewed the dental and psychological literature about the behavior of dentists and their patients, and used this evidence to evaluate critically the various theoretical models of the dentist-patient relationship. A major aim of this book is to show how the application of soundly based psychological theory and practice can improve patient management, reduce the stress of practicing dentistry, and contribute to the design of effective community dental health campaigns.

This book provides practical strategies for dentists to effectively and confidently communicate with many dental insurance issues, as well as with their patients and members of their staff. Providing real-world examples and sample letters, the book includes specific guidance on how to handle common communication scenarios to avoid being caught off-guard or unprepared. Leadership and Communication in Dentistry begins with a unique section discussing communications with insurance companies, including negotiations, PPO contract issues, appeals letters, and more. It then includes chapters on communicating with patients, addressing how to listen to their concerns and motivate them, and staff, emphasizing how to be a better leader and institute office policies. The final section explores how dentists can use leadership and communication skills to improve their practice of dentistry. Provides concrete guidance on how dentists can confidently take the lead on conversations with dental insurance companies, their staff, and their patients Includes real-world examples of how to lead through communications Divided into sections covering communications with insurance companies, dental patients, and staff members Teaches that being mindful of proper communication and leadership skills will create a true balance for the successful dentist leader to become successful at living Leadership and Communication in Dentistry is a must-have resource for any dentist or dental student wishing to improve their communication skills.

This book focuses on major communication challenges in clinical practice—that is, communicating effectively with anxious, "difficult," or dissatisfied patients; communicating and integrating preventive and oral health messages and education in primary dental care; and finding ways to improve patient care without adding to the stress of frontline clinical practice. Implementing the strategies devised by these international experts can dramatically improve the success of any dental practice.

First published in 1992. Oral Psychophysiology: Stress, Pain, and Behavior in Dental Care presents the many different behavioral aspects of dental treatment, including specific dento-related behavioral dysfunctions (fear, anxiety and phobia, excessive gagging reflex, orofacial pain). Special attention is given to the specific problems of elderly dental patients, including possible problems in adapting to dentures. The effects of stress on physiological conditions in the oral cavity and stress-related behavior, such as syncope or inability to achieve local anesthesia, are discussed. The book also summarizes possible treatment modalities for patients who find it difficult to cope with the various aspects of dental care, such as behavior modification, hypnosis, and pharmaceutical approaches. Oral Psychophysiology: Stress, Pain, and Behavior in Dental Care is an indispensable resource for dentists and dental students who occasionally encounter "problematic" patients. The handling of such patients requires more than the usual, familiar, manual skills and is often a source of stress and frustration to the dentist. By developing an understanding of the underlying principles of the behavior of these patients, a clinician will be able to create a better interpersonal relationship with his/her patients, prevent some of the potential problems, and solve others.

In this day and age, you cannot satisfy a patient through dentistry alone; you must also establish an emotional connection if you want the patient to remain a long term customer. Mastering communication is about understanding the essence of human behaviour. This is as true today as it was yesterday and will be tomorrow. Being able to connect with people and really learn the essence of their emotional experience is essential to achieving success in dentistry. Better people skills will give you an edge in this profession and make you irreplaceable by making your patients feel special and happy. These skills are also the secret to repeat business and being able to practice the dentistry that you love. Key Features - Learn to communicate fees and present extensive treatment plans - Impress your patient by understanding their non-verbal communication - Learn to manage anxious patients - Learn to deal with complaints - Take advantage of proven success strategies for long-term patient retention and treatment acceptance

The Fearful Dental Patient: A Guide to Understanding and Managing helps dental professionals understand the basics of fear, anxiety and phobias and the role these emotions play in creating negative behavior within the dental environment. The text contains a variety of modalities that help identify dental fear and phobia, as well as chair-side techniques and practical advice aimed at improving patient cooperation and ensuring treatment compliance. Chapter topics include the basic origins of patient fear and anxiety, how to indentify dental anxiety and varied approaches to managing fearful patients of any age. Approaches discussed employ behavioral, pharmacological, sedation and even hypnotic techniques, specifying combinations where required. Chapters also include coverage of a wide range of patients, including those with psychiatric comorbidities and special healthcare needs. The entire dental team will greatly benefit from the proven methods and practical guidance presented to better understand and treat fearful dental patients.