Insight on Improving Professional Performance in Dental Practice: Essentials of Verbal and Nonverbal Communication in Dentist-Patient Relationship (A Critical Review)

Abstract

Background and Aim: In contemporary world, patient’s expectations of his dentist include not only professional performance of treatment procedures, but also a high standard of communication skills and individual approach. The current paper aimed to outline some essential elements in dentist-patient relationship regarding verbal and nonverbal communication techniques. Methods: Based on available literature on the issue as well as some assumptions that arose from the author’s personal experience and observations, the article underlined the importance of acquiring effective communication skills by the dentists, thus providing quality dental assistance, and ensuring patient’s satisfaction. Results: Literature review summarized basic theoretical aspects regarding communication media, verbal and nonverbal communication techniques and their relevant application in dental practice.  The results indicated that developing communication skills can help dentists to build trust, security, and respect in the patient during the therapeutic process. As a result of effective communication, it can be expected that the patient will be more motivated to follow the prescriptions and thus he will have a better chance of successful treatment. Conclusion: To achieve high standards in practice, dentists need to be not only good specialists, but also excellent psychologists. Mastering a high level of verbal and nonverbal communication skills is a good solution towards their better professional performance and fulfillment.