(Newswire.net — April 20, 2018) —  For the lucky few, no matter what may be taking them to a dentist it is always a welcome experience; it feels like a chance to catch up with an old pal!

So, what is it that makes these two experiences strikingly different? The answer lies in these 5 characteristics that the best dentists must have.

The 5 Characteristics of the Best Dentists

Excellent interpersonal skills

You walk timidly into a dentist’s office. You would rather be some other place. But here you are, and you cannot put it off any longer.

 Then, surprise! A pleasant and friendly face beams at you from behind a reception desk. You mumble some inaudible words and you are ushered into the dentist’s office. The kind face melts away your last feelings of anxiety. You can’t wait to sit in the dentist’s chair. Unbelievable, isn’t it?

Here’s why:

• The best dentists are friendly and able to build rapport with their patients.
• They are warm and welcoming to their patients.
• They go out of their way to be cheerful, so they can reassure their patients.
• They are never in a hurry to see the next patient; making you feel that you are very valuable.

Great communication skills

A great dentist is a good listener, being patient enough to pick up those non-verbal cues. She can draw out the pertinent issues and concerns from you so that you can decide on the best treatment plan.

The dentist should be able to use simple language to explain what the procedure will entail. She makes time to inform you about oral care. This needs good conversational skills so that you are not overburdened with information that does not make sense.

A great dentist must be honest with you. She will tell you if the tooth really needs an extraction; not a root canal treatment.

A gentle magic touch

One of the reasons why you may dread a visit to the dentist is the thought of those sharp metal instruments in your mouth. A great dentist will understand this and take time to reassure you.

She will have nimble and precise touches that are almost magical. This special gift will minimize pain and discomfort. In addition, the best dentist does not mind making time for breaks should the patient request them.

A thirst for knowledge

Technology in dentistry keeps on changing very fast. Some of the practices may become outdated quickly. A good dentist stays on top of his or her career by having an insatiable thirst to keep abreast of new information.

The best dentists inform their patients of new trends and procedures available to solve their issues. They will also do some research or consultation if they feel that they don’t have all the skills to handle a certain patient well.

Wonderful problem-solving skills

Patients come to the dentist with various concerns. No two patients may have the exact same dental challenges.

A great dentist must think outside the box. She should be able to think critically on their feet to come up with unique solutions tailor-made for that specific patient.

A visit to the dentist should never be more unbearable than that tooth causing you sleepless nights. You know that your pearly whites will thank you for taking time to go for that appointment. After you have made that long overdue decision to go for some dental checkup these five characteristics will help you choose the right dentist. 

About the Author: Dr. Holly Gregory is a dentist in Humble, Texas. She’s a native Texan who is committed to providing cutting-edge care in a comfortable environment. Dr. Gregory is a mom and enjoys spending time away from her practice with her family.