I GOOGLED IT, SO I'M BASICALLY A DENTIST
I'm not sure I want a crown. Can't you just do another filling?
Tell me a little bit more...
What benefit do you see in doing another filling?
How long do you want it to last?
How many times do you want to work on that tooth?
This won't happen very often if we ask open-ended questions FIRST..
Do you take Delta Dental?
We have a lot of patients on that plan! We will do everything we can to maximize your plan, despite any restrictions or limitations.
I need to talk to my wife first.
I totally understand. I would do the same thing! What do you think she'll say?
Would it be helpful if we could set up a zoom follow up with both of you?
When would you like for me to follow up with you?
I think I'll just wait until it hurts.
I'm so glad you're not in pain... yet.
It sounds like you're seeing a benefit in waiting until you're in pain. Do you mind telling me more?
I don't understand why I need a 'deep cleaning'. I've been getting regular cleanings every 6 months at my old dental office, and they've never said anything about gum disease.
Tell me a bit more...
I can tell you’ve done a great job being consistent with your visits — that’s awesome! If we were to fast forward 10-12 years from now, what's going to be most important to you when it comes to your teeth?
If we see some things that could potentially get in the way of you reaching your objectives, how proactive would you like to be?
This isn’t about what someone missed — gum disease can be sneaky. Our goal is to meet you where you are today and protect what you’ve worked so hard to keep healthy
Why aren't you on the list for my insurance anymore?
Our doctor was finding that the limitations of your plan restrict the time she is able to spend with you, as well as the quality of dentistry. She isn't willing to sacrifice either - you deserve better!
Do you whiten teeth?
Absolutely! Do you mind if I ask who I'm speaking with?
Tell me what you're wanting to accomplish..
What do you know about whitening
how soon do you want your teeth whitened.
Other than the color, what else is important to you?
My last dentist didn't tell me about this...
This comment is an indication that you didn't do a very good job of finding out what's important to the patient. You have to EARN THE RIGHT to give solutions by building a foundation built upon their goals and objectives.
My filling came out and now my tooth is really sensitive. I've been online and it sounds like I might need a root canal. what do you think?
Oh no! I'm so sorry you're having trouble. Do you mind telling me your name?
I'll bet Dr. Brady will want to meet you and personally take a look. We have time reserved especially for our new patients with these type of situations - can you make it in tomorrow at 2pm?
I received a list from my insurance saying I have to find a new dentist
That's absolutely not correct. We have several patients on your plan! Our doctor made the decision to change the relationship we have with your plan because they were asking us to downgrade our standard of care, and you deserve better!
I don't want any x-rays today.
Tell me a little bit more...
What concerns you about x-rays?
Why is it important for you to get your teeth cleaned today? Other than a cleaning, what would you like to accomplish while you're here?
How important is prevention to you when it comes to your teeth?
I don't want an exam - just a cleaning
Tell me why it's important for you to get your teeth cleaned?
Do mind sharing with me why you're reluctant to have the doctor check your teeth?
I'll do what my insurance will pay for.
What if your plan doesn't cover things that are important to you? (have we established what's important from the patients point of view?)
Would it be helpful if you could spread out your financial obligation in the event you want to accomplish something that your plan doesn't cover?
Most patients have found that their dental plan is more of a 'rebate' or supplement, than actual insurance.
That's a lot of money! There's no way I can do it.
Yes it is quite an investment. Would it be helpful if we could spread out the cost over time?
You get to decide the pace of your treatment. Where would you like to start?