Dentists and the Patients Who Love Them: Professional and Patient Views of Dentistry

What makes a good dentist and do recent trainees make the grade? The views of vocational trainers.

“…The finding that technical ability is the main factor behind what makes a 'good' dentist mirrors the findings of Gerbert et al 5 However, most studies have tended to find general communication issues are of more importance than technical ones. 6,7 The majority of these studies however have been undertaken from the patient's perspective, most of whom who will not have the knowledge or ability to judge technical issues.…”

The development of a concise questionnaire designed to measure perceived outcomes on the issues of greatest importance to patients

“…Gerbert et al 6 found very high levels of patient satisfaction and stated: 'Patients were overwhelmingly satisfied with their current dentist: 87% indicated that they were very satisfied and 98% said that they planned to stay with their dentist. ' A recent example of this problem with the value of patient satisfaction surveys was reported by Howard-Williams.…”

Marketing dental care to the reluctant patient

“…Further studies 18,19 highlight the impact of personal communication skills as part of the marketing effort. The ability of dentists to interact well with patients, especially with anxious individuals, or those holding negative attitudes to dentistry, may result in increased patient satisfaction, leading to retention of these patients with the practice.…”

“…Many dentists are aware of their own lack of knowledge and training in social and communication skills. 18 In a recent American study, 19 of professional and patient views of dentistry, it was found that of the 3,275 patients surveyed, 1,836 (56%) patients mentioned the interpersonal caring (eg gentle, patient and friendly) in response to the open question 'What do you like most about this (their) dentist?' This research concluded that although dentists should provide skilful dentistry, they should take the time to communicate articulately and clearly with patients ie showing patients that they are cared for.…”