Dear DrBicuspid Member,
According to a recent survey, there is a shocking disconnect between dental patients who are open to screenings (including oral cancer) being done in the dental practice and the number of times those screenings actually happen while the patient is sitting in the operatory.
I recently sat down with Lisa Heaton from the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health to discuss the importance of health screenings in dental practices. During our talk, we discussed the disconnect between patients' willingness to undergo screenings and the low percentage of patients receiving them.
We also discussed the role of dental assistants in facilitating these screenings and reducing patient anxiety. The conversation emphasizes the link between oral health and overall health, as well as the potential impact of screenings on preventing medical emergencies in the dental practice.
5 key points to know from our conversation
- Patients are willing to undergo health screenings in dental practices, but the percentage of patients who actually receive these screenings is low.
- Dental assistants play a crucial role in facilitating health screenings and reducing patient anxiety.
- There is a strong link between oral health and overall health, and screenings can help prevent medical emergencies in the dental practice.
- Communication and education are key in ensuring that patients understand the purpose and importance of health screenings.
- Dental practices have an opportunity to reach patients who may not see a physician by offering screenings for conditions like blood pressure, diabetes, and HIV.
- You can watch our conversation below, and I hope it will spur thoughts about what can be done to improve the lives of your patients when they are in your care.
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As always, thank you for reading DrBicuspid.com. Here's to a fantastic weekend ahead!
Kevin Henry
Editor in Chief
