When we design a house, we need certain tools like manpower and most importantly, the blue print which designs the structure according to the person's taste and lifestyle. We then hire engineers, architects, interior designers and so forth in order to complete and execute the plan. This is what we call planning ahead. 

Likewise in dentistry, when we receive a patient, we don't just go ahead and treat the ailment. At this point, we should focus our treatment plan on a holistic approach where we do not only treat the symptom but everything that is present in the oral cavity that will pose as a problem in the future. No, its not our way of making more business out of that patient. This is simply preparing the patient toward a better lifestyle by changing his attitude towards his or her oral health. 

Many of my patients who come to the clinic have had several issues with their teeth. Nowadays, their concern is no longer confined in their oral cavity. Their way of life is generally affected by their insecurities and frustrations regarding their oral health. This greatly challenges me as a dentist because it give me the opportunity to show how dentistry can change their lives. Through a thorough patient diagnosis and exchange of ideas, we are able to effectively communicate on how we can help surpass and even overcome his or her inhibitions toward dental treatment. Keep in mind that no patient who has dental trauma will let you do his or her teeth if your presentation and communication is lacking.

One way of providing comfort and ease is by allowing your patients relate his or her concerns during the first visit. These information will allow you to understand your patients needs and expectations from the treatment. Gathering from this information will help you find the appropriate solution for your patients. This way, you will be able to justify your treatment proposal because they know that you open to their ideas. A good collaboration always precedes trust and when trust is established, your patient will most likely agree to your treatment plan. This way, both of you can work around the treatment that will basically suit your patients. In the end, this will greatly influence them to consider having their dental treatment done in your clinic once you have gained their confidence. 

In dentistry today, our attitude should have the flexibility to discern what is right for our patients yet maintain an utmost standard of care that is at par with international health standards. Always look for the best team ( laboratory, consultants, assistants) when you work on a patient because in my experience, they truly appreciate the effort you make to make their patient experience above satisfactory. Never condone a wayward practice (e.g. skipping a procedure, doing shortcuts, disregarding safety precautions and using substandard materials) because in our profession, there are no shortcuts to success. Our success is never defined by the number of patients that come into our clinic but on how we execute and treat our patients well. Having satisfied clients with well-deserved praises are one of the best rewards a dentist can receive. 

And above all, keep your values intact when you do your treatments. As the golden says, " Do unto others as you would have others do unto you."