We see it every day, simple self-care options that could make a big difference in the lives our patients. Steps they could take to improve their health. Minor changes it seems they could incorporate easily into their lives. Why don’t they floss, or exercise, or eat better? Why don’t they take advantage of early intervention … Read More »
What’s Next?
I have been reflecting lately on what I learned from what I experienced this past year. We have all been though a lot. It’s not over, but it is a good time to reflect on how far we have come and to plan for the future. I’m writing today to ask you to pause briefly … Read More »
Can You Keep Up Your Scan?
The phrase, “Keep up your scan” as used in aviation refers to paying attention to what is all around you. Look out at the horizon, to your left and to your right, above you and below you. And don’t lose sight of your instrument panel! Keeping up your scan speaks to a level of awareness … Read More »
What is a Fair Fee?
Everyone has an opinion about what a fair fee is in dentistry today. Patients think they know what it should be (usually less than what it is.) Insurance companies have their opinions about what our care, skill, and judgment are worth. Consultants and other experts have statistics, comparisons, and formulas that promise to provide the … Read More »
Do You Practice Whole Health Dentistry?
I once had a patient remark, “I guess my teeth really are connected to the rest of my body!” He was only half joking. He was just starting to understand the effect of his dental health on his overall health. Those of us in dentistry clearly understand the significance of the oral/systemic connection. Many practices … Read More »
What Are You Listening For?
We talk a lot in dentistry about what questions to ask our patients to help them move toward health. Whether interviewing a new patient, or reconnecting with an existing patient, everyone has their favorite questions. But as important as the questions are, our intention — what we are listening for — is far more important. We know … Read More »
Are You Safe to Launch?
The most pressing question I receive from dentists these days is: “How can I help my team and patients feel safe when we re-start our practice?” That question makes sense given the fact that we have never done this before. Never before in our collective memory have we shut down dentistry as we … Read More »
Opportunities in Times of Uncertainty
In times of uncertainty we all experience our individual vulnerability as well as the vulnerability of those around us. News of the present and predictions for the future can change on a moment’s notice. It’s a shared experience, and it’s different for everyone. Some will panic and hoard. Some will whistle in the dark. Most … Read More »
How Engaged Are Your Patients?
We all know what engagement looks like. Patients are alert, awake, tuned in. They sit forward. Nod their heads. Make a comment. Ask a question. We know engagement when we see it. And we also know when someone is not engaged. But what can we do about it? In education engagement is described as “when … Read More »
What Are You Paying Attention To?
I have been reading lately. Truthfully, I read all the time. I am rarely without a book. But recently it appears there are more interesting books on the shelf. Are the books more interesting, or am I more interested? I have been working on new projects of late and my curiosity is high. I have … Read More »
