Eight: Endgame

The Dental World

Carrying the Connection to the End

After the dentist leaves, sit the patient up and let them know it was nice to see them and that we will book the next appointment at the front desk.

Accompany them to the desk in a reverse process of how you walked them to the operatory.

Stay in the moment with them. Don’t think about the clock, your next patient, or going home until they have left. Stay connected, radiating positivity. Go over their treatment questions.

Give them any materials you mentioned during the visit (brochures, products, flossers, etc.).

Wrap up the conversations you’ve built your rapport around and make an effort to remember their name and what they’re like. It’s okay if you don’t retain the information forever. The effort and intention will give you a sincere focus for your energy.

Say your warm goodbyes. Transfer them back to the normal world and invite them back to the Dental World. Finish strong.

Watch their face to see how you did. Once they’ve left, you can close the connection.

Now make your notes and prepare yourself. Time to do it all over again!

Make mental notes about what went well and what didn’t. This way, each patient you see is another chance to work on your approach.

These personal challenges help to add interest and energy to a career you may spend 30 years in, and it keeps us engaged with each patient as individuals.