Prior to the oral procedure, offer to the patient to have a conversation before starting any dental work.
If space allows, have a regular chair in the treatment room for the client to sit in during that conversation.
If not, ask the patient if they would prefer to have the conversation while standing or if they are comfortable sitting in the treatment chair.
Present a summary of the treatment
Have some flexibility. Ask if there is anything that the patient needs to be looked at. If it takes precedence, adapt your treatment plan.
Discuss the preferred pace for the procedure i.e. doing everything in one appointment or multiple appointments
Allow the patient to ask questions
Develop a simple non verbal communication code with the patient. For example: Are you good? Thumb up. If the treatment needs to stop raise the left hand.
Let the patient know there will also be time available to ask questions afterwards.
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