title: Patient communication for restorative dentistry using a customized written document.
abstract: Effective communication with patients allows them to understand their problems and what causes them. At times, patients also may need some motivation to initiate therapy. From a marketing standpoint, anything that can be done in a professional manner to enhance the patient's perceived image of the dentist and practice will be beneficial to both the patient and the dentist. The type of letter described in this column is one example of how to accomplish all of the goals.
authors.forename: Bruce W
authors.initials: BW
authors.lastname: Small
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D015709:Correspondence as Topic; D003793:Dental Restoration, Permanent; D003812:Dentist-Patient Relations; D006801:Humans; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*