Embracing a New Era
Do you have patients who are hesitant at the thought of going through orthodontic treatment? Perhaps they think the procedures are the same as they were in the era when their parents wore braces as teens. When discussing orthodontic services, this outdated mindset can be a significant roadblock and a challenge for dentists in their orthodontic case acceptance rate. The best approach is by modifying the presentation of the patient’s case.
At Gerety Orthodontic Seminars, through our comprehensive courses and guidance from our instructors, you will learn how to demonstrate the value and importance of orthodontic treatment to your patients in a less invasive manner. These are the important steps to follow in order to help your patients understand orthodontic treatment and will help to boost your case acceptance rate.
Every case begins with thorough and proper examination of the patient. The dentist must have a clear understanding of the mechanics required to correct problems of occlusion, crowding, and overbite, for example. If you feel that the best alternative for treatment is orthodontic care, it is imperative that your patient should have a clear understanding of why dental correction is needed. The best approach is to show the patient the positive changes these corrections will bring to their health, and in particular, their smile.
Keep in mind that a preliminary assessment visit or a new patient examination may be the best time for you to explore treatment options with the patient. You may identify problems like discolored teeth, deteriorating fillings, or malaligned teeth. When your patients share what they expect from dental treatment, you have the opportunity to assure them that you have the right skills and tools to help them achieve those goals. Pain-free techniques are also important to discuss at this time.
Begin by presenting completed cases that show proven aesthetic results in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. Before and after photos are helpful in illustrating what orthodontic care can accomplish. After your evaluation of the case, provide your patient with a professional treatment plan. These tools will allow your patient to evaluate their options and visualize the results you can provide. Working with your orthodontic assistants, discuss the individual case, answer questions and concerns, and encourage your patient to consider the treatment and say “yes.”
Familiarize your patients with all the latest “pain-free” advancements in orthodontics. Tell your patients about current treatment options that offer effectiveness but also convenience and comfort during orthodontic treatment. When patients understand the impact of orthodontic treatment on their appearance and on their overall physical health, this will open their minds to possibilities they may not have known prior to the consultation. You should reassure your patients that the orthodontic treatment options today could correct their oral conditions.
At Gerety Orthodontic Seminars, we have years of experience in integrating orthodontic care into the practice of the general dentist. Let us guide you on everything you need to know about how you can boost your orthodontic case acceptance rate. Our curriculum is up-to-date and includes how to implement the most current equipment and orthodontic techniques. Gerety Orthodontic Seminars, for general dentists like you, offers flexibility for your training. We offer both online and on-site classroom instruction. Enroll in complete programs to learn orthodontics and train your staff to assist you in these important skills.