FYI

From anxiety about dental visits to lack of priority when it comes to oral hygiene, most adults will find any excuse to avoid their dentist unless it is absolutely necessary. That is, until the oral health issue has escalated into a bigger, unavoidable problem. 
 

What can you do to promote preventive care? 

Promoting preventive care is key to helping patients maintain their oral health as well as ensuring the long-term success of your practice. Here are some effective strategies that you can use to encourage preventive care, reduce dental anxiety and prioritize oral health:

1. Offer home care that's easy to manage.

Simple oral care that patients can easily incorporate into their daily lives is a great place to start. Recommend tools like electric toothbrushes or flossers that may be easier to use, and give personalized tips for maintaining a consistent oral care routine based on individual needs. 

2. Educate patients about the impact of oral care on overall health.

Poor oral hygiene has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and even complications during pregnancy. By making patients aware of the systemic effects of oral health they’ll better understand the importance of maintaining regular visits and healthy habits. Use visuals or teaching aids that illustrate the progression of dental issues that can be avoided with regular care.

3. Build trust with compassionate communication.

Listening to your patients’ concerns and treating them with empathy goes a long way in reducing anxiety. When patients feel heard and understood, they are more likely to return for preventive care. Ensure that your staff is trained to communicate clearly, calmly and compassionately. You can also consider translation services for patients with language barriers.

4. Highlight success stories and share testimonials.

Patient testimonials and success stories are powerful tools to promote preventive care. Share stories of patients whose regular check-ups prevented serious dental issues. Showcase positive experiences to help others feel more confident in committing to preventive care.

5. Encourage patients to make their next appointment.

Before patients leave after appointments, schedule their visits to ensure continuity of care. Send reminders through email, text or a mobile app leading up to the visits. Emphasize the importance of regular check-ups for preventing future dental problems and offer flexible times or online booking options to increase the likelihood of keeping those appointments.

Preventive care builds trust between patients and providers by demonstrating a genuine commitment to the patients’ long-term health and well-being. When healthcare providers focus on preventing issues before they arise, it shows patients that the provider is not just reacting to problems, but actively working to keep them healthy.