A life changing patient experience
Posted by Armi Cabero on Tuesday, December 16, 2014
When I was in college, I had my lower left molar extracted by our family dentist. Because I had no inkling of what the procedure would be, I obliged to my dentist and had it removed on that fateful day. Truly it was an awful experience. For one hour and a half, my mouth was open, I was subjected to all the needling, and yanking of my tooth as my dentist persistently removed my third molar. At last, she was able to remove my tooth but then as soon as the tooth was pulled out, I felt a sudden gush of pain in the socket. To top if off, I had a hard time swallowing because the tooth was deeply embedded into the bone. Of all the hardships I encountered, this was one of the most painful experiences I ever had. I told myself, I never want to go through that experience, EVER.
I told my professor about this and he disclosed how pain management is important during these trying times. All things can be resolved when we are better prepared with each case. Pain is the enemy especially when dealing with oral surgery cases. Patients become agitated and restless hence they tend to be uncooperative. When their fear is heightened, we lose our focus. Patients can sense this through our behavior which is why it is important to stay calm when we are in this situation. The objective is to keep your eye on the ball and be patient with your patients. Their experience in your clinic is a reflection of how you conduct yourself at every treatment. When we are conscientious to their needs, you can be rest assured that they will be coming back for an appointment so always put your best foot forward.
I told my professor about this and he disclosed how pain management is important during these trying times. All things can be resolved when we are better prepared with each case. Pain is the enemy especially when dealing with oral surgery cases. Patients become agitated and restless hence they tend to be uncooperative. When their fear is heightened, we lose our focus. Patients can sense this through our behavior which is why it is important to stay calm when we are in this situation. The objective is to keep your eye on the ball and be patient with your patients. Their experience in your clinic is a reflection of how you conduct yourself at every treatment. When we are conscientious to their needs, you can be rest assured that they will be coming back for an appointment so always put your best foot forward.
Dr Armi is past editor of Dental Asia magazine. After her numerous feats, she returns and handles a private practice in the country and is considered as one of the most respected dental professionals in the dental association.
Now she continues her editorial crusade as Editor in Chief of Dental News Philippines to help empower every Filipino dentist with updated knowledge and skills straight from the "libraries" of renowned authors in the world.
