“People are more aware than we think.”
— Dental hygienist and periodontal therapist, Chelsea Kiser
In our day-to-day routines, we can fall into the habit of telling patients what is going on and what they need to do next… but we forget to tell them why.
- Why are their gums bleeding?
- Why do they continue to get cavities despite brushing twice a day?
- Why are they struggling with bad breath?
Taking the time to explain the underlying causes of a problem can make all the difference. Dental hygienist and periodontal therapist Chelsea Kiser explains:
Consider the example Chelsea Kiser gives in the video about gum bleeding. In just a few sentences, she provides a patient with an in-depth understanding of why they are experiencing bleeding:
“It is caused by bacteria, yeast or viruses getting into those pockets [in the gumline]. You have an ulcer at the base of that pocket that I touch, and you bleed — that means you have a little infection down there."
This paints a much more tangible and memorable picture than simply saying, “You have an infection” or “You have bleeding”.
How to explain the WHYs effectively
- Translate it to a language the patient understands (and can remember).
Avoid using overly clinical terms, as they can make it harder for the patient to connect with the information.
For example, instead of saying, “Your oral microbiome is in dysbiosis,” you could say, “Your mouth is home to a whole community of tiny organisms. When they live in balance, they help protect your mouth and your health. But right now, they are out of balance.”
- Take time to educate after the treatment.
There is a good chance that your patient will be distracted during the procedure, making it less likely that your explanation will stick. Avoid this multitasking by waiting to educate until after the treatment.
During this time, you can use visual aids, such as illustrations or models of teeth, while talking, which will help the patient’s understanding.
- Practice, practice, practice.
There is no getting around it: Explaining complex topics in simple and effective ways takes practice. Each patient interaction is an opportunity, and by evaluating your efforts, you can hone your skills over time.
In the video below, Chelsea Kiser explains how you can practise with your healthy patients and why this approach is beneficial to everyone involved:
Inviting curiosity will strengthen your patient relationship
When you focus on sharing why a problem is happening rather than simply telling patients what they need to do, the patient is less likely to feel judged. Rather than lecturing patients about brushing better or cleaning between their teeth, you can spark their curiosity by inviting them into the microscopic world that lives in their mouth.
This shift not only educates but also empowers patients to take a more active role in their own oral health. By encouraging them to ask questions and explore the underlying causes, you foster a more collaborative relationship that benefits everyone.