In the fast-paced world of dentistry, where doctors aim to provide top-notch care to patients, it's not uncommon for challenges to arise within the dental team. Recently, we received a question from a doctor who wanted to know how to handle situations where assistants offer feedback or ask questions during procedures. Feeling judged and overwhelmed, he found himself trying to balance the expectations of the owner doctor, the patient, and the rest of the team.

Here's what we recommended to help him navigate this situation:

Embrace Feedback as a Path to Excellence

Throughout our years of working with dentists, we've consistently encouraged assistants to speak up when they notice something that can improve patient care. Whether it's during a prep, seating, surgery, or any other procedure, their insights can be invaluable. Feedback itself is neutral; it's our interpretation of it that gives it meaning. Instead of feeling judged, doctors can choose to view feedback as a commitment to delivering the best dentistry for the patient.

Reframe the Perspective

Shift the focus from personal judgment to a collective commitment to excellent patient care. Doctors can reframe the situation as a team effort, emphasizing that it takes the entire dental team to provide the best possible care. Whether feedback is spoken out loud, jotted on a sticky note, or conveyed using an explorer, the goal remains the same: serving the patient's best interests.

Appreciate Team Support

It's important for doctors to appreciate the support and willingness of their team members to contribute to better patient outcomes. Whether the doctor agrees or disagrees with the feedback, they retain the ultimate decision-making authority. These moments provide an opportunity for the team to learn the doctor's preferences and foster mutual respect, thereby building confidence on both sides.

Cultivate Confidence

Confidence is a skill that often needs nurturing, especially for new doctors fresh out of dental school. Building confidence is a lifelong journey, and it begins with recognizing that a doctor's primary role is to provide quality care, not to please everyone around them. When doctors humble themselves and seek support from their team, their confidence grows because they align their goals and expectations with the entire dental team. This fosters a sense of togetherness and shared purpose.

Effective Communication

To initiate productive conversations with the team, doctors can start by asking for assistance politely: "Hey, could you help me with something?" Once they receive a positive response, they can clearly communicate their intentions for patient care and performance expectations. The focus should always be on serving the patient to the best of their abilities. Doctors should specify whether they need silence during procedures or prefer to discuss suggestions in private, ensuring clarity in their communication.

You've already accomplished a significant milestone by graduating from dental school. Remember that you have the capability to tackle any challenge that comes your way. By fostering collaboration, appreciating your team's support, and framing feedback as a commitment to excellent patient care, you can build confidence, enhance your relationships, and ensure your dental practice thrives as a unified team working toward the same goal—providing exceptional care to your patients.