Patient Preference and Adherence (Jul 2024)
Strategies for Effective Dentist-Patient Communication: A Literature Review
Abstract
Jasmine Cheuk Ying Ho,1 Hollis Haotian Chai,1 Edward Chin Man Lo,1 Michelle Zeping Huang,1,2 Chun Hung Chu1 1Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of English, The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Chun Hung Chu, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, 3B26, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, 34 Hospital Road, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China, Email [email protected] Michelle Zeping Huang, The Department of English, Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, Hang Shin Link, Siu Lek Yuen, Shatine, N.T, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China, Email [email protected]: The effectiveness of high-quality dental care predominantly lies on the communication between dentist and patient. However, little literature has reported the importance of these “soft skills” in dental practice. The aim of this literature review is to explore strategies for effective dentist-patient communication. Dentist-patient communication is a bidirectional process involving the exchange of ideas that should be clear (easy to understand), correct (accurate), concise (to the point), complete (with essential information), and cohesive (well-organized). Effective communication empowers patients with the knowledge required to make an informed decision about their own oral health. It not only improves the dentist’s efficiency and boosts patient confidence, but also alleviates patients’ dental anxiety and fear, addresses patients’ needs and preferences, increases patients’ adherence, and enhances patient satisfaction. To enhance dentist-patient communication, dentists should take the patient-centered approach as a premise. The approach comprises understanding patients’ illnesses, shared decision-making, and mindful intervention at the patient’s own pace. In addition, dentists should use simple, succinct language, proper body posture, gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact when interacting with patients. Dentists should show empathy, encourage questions and feedback, employ visual aids, and give ample time to patients. Nowadays, dentists and their patients use messaging applications in their communication. This form of telecommunication is not only a convenient way of communication but also reduces the costs associated with a dentist visit. In conclusion, effective dentist-patient communication is vital for the success of dental practice. Dentists who prioritize communication and build positive relationships with their patients are more likely to achieve positive outcomes and foster the expansion of their dental practice.Keywords: dentist-patient communication, medical communication, communication strategies, dentist-patient interaction
