Discretionary Dentistry and the Patient Perspective

Treatment plans and case acceptance are the backbone of dental practices. Many dental therapies are discretionary and require emotional and financial commitment from patients before they proceed. This article will discuss how the dental team, especially the treatment coordinator, can improve interactions with patients, drawing on research in consumer and patient perspectives toward health expenditures, to increase case acceptance levels.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Describe how patients' perspectives and emotions affect their evaluation of oral health and dental treatment.

• Discuss socioeconomic and other issues that impair dental case acceptance.

• Explain the strategies the dental team can employ to address patient concerns about complex or high-end dentistry.
   

About the Author

Thomas M. Bilski, DDS
Private Practice
Independence, Ohio