Empowering patients: Your guide to informed dental choices

16 / 03 / 2024

Empowering patients: Your guide to informed dental choices

Your oral health is a crucial component of your overall well-being and making educated decisions about your dental care is essential to maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. In this article, we will provide valuable information to help you make informed choices regarding your options for dental treatment. From understanding the importance of routine dental visits to being aware of various dental procedures, we aim to empower our patients to take an active role in maintaining good oral health.

As dental providers, it is fundamental that we ensure our patients feel fully informed about their choices for dental treatment and ongoing care.

Obtaining informed consent is a crucial aspect of dental care, as it not only ensures that patients have the autonomy to make decisions about their treatment, but also promotes transparency and trust between the patient and the dentist. At Lighthouse Dental Practice, we pride ourselves on reliable, honest, and ethical care. We emphasise the importance of good communication, and for the patient to know that they are always in control of their treatment choices. Working in line with the CQC and best practice, consent must always be:

• Voluntary: Made by the individual themselves and free from pressure from others.
• Informed: The person must be provided with all information about the nature, purpose, benefits, risks, and alternatives to the proposed treatment, along with the likely outcome of not having any treatment.
• Made with capacity: The patient must have the capacity and be able to understand the information provided to them and use said information to make an informed decision.

Obtaining informed consent is a cornerstone of ethical and patient-centred dental care. We respect patients’ autonomy, promote transparency, and ensure that we contribute to positive patient-dentist relationships. This ultimately leads to better outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Empowering patients to make informed decisions about their dental care is essential for maintaining good oral health. We have some key pieces of information to help you make educated choices regarding your dental care:

1. Regular Dental Check-ups:
Regular dental check-ups, typically recommended every six months, are crucial for preventative care. These appointments allow dentists to identify and address dental issues in their early stages, which helps prevent more significant problems and costly treatments at a later stage. You should be advised about the frequency of your check-ups, and it is important to adhere to your dental provider’s recommendations.

2. Routine dental plans and payment options:
At Lighthouse Dental Practice, we offer routine dental plans which provide extensive coverage, ensuring your peace of mind with a range of benefits throughout the year. In addition to regular check-ups and hygiene appointments, this comprehensive plan also includes dental insurance and implant cover, safeguarding your oral health and financial security. With our plans, you can enjoy the confidence of knowing that your dental needs are well taken care of, no matter what may arise. In addition, we also offer 0% interest finance plans, providing a simple and affordable way to pay for all types of dental treatment.

3. Treatment options:
Your dentist may present various treatment options for a particular issue, each with its associated benefits, risks, and costs. Patients should ask for a clear explanation of the available options, including the associated risks and benefits, to make an informed decision about their care. It is important to enquire about the longevity of treatments and whether they address the root cause of the problem or are simply to provide temporary relief.

4. Prevention and maintenance:
Prevention is key to good oral health. Patients should learn about proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use. Dentists and hygienists can provide the correct guidance on diet choices that promote dental health, including limiting sugary and acidic foods.

5. Oral Health Education:
Dental professionals can educate patients about the importance of oral health in preventing systemic issues such as heart disease, diabetes and more. Patients should always ask questions about how their oral health might impact their overall well-being. It is crucial to feel that you are well-educated on the benefits of good oral hygiene and how it can promote your general health.

6. Emergency care:
Your dental provider should inform you what constitutes a dental emergency, how to contact your dentist or out-of-hours provider, and when to seek urgent care if it is needed. Guidelines can also be provided for managing common dental emergencies at home until professional help can be obtained.

7. X-rays and diagnostic tools:
Patients should be aware of the necessity of dental X-rays at the appropriate intervals for the purposes of monitoring, diagnosing dental disease, and subsequent treatment planning. You can enquire about the type of X-rays used, their frequency, and the safety measures in place to minimise radiation exposure.

8. Second opinions:
Patients have the right to seek a second opinion if they are uncertain about a diagnosis or treatment plan, or if the opinion of a specialist is suggested by the general dental provider. Dentists should be open to discussing alternative approaches and options for treatment.

9. Continuing education:
Dentists and dental hygienists should stay updated on the latest research and advancements in dental care to deliver the best service possible. Patients can ask their dental providers about their commitment to ongoing education and how it benefits patient care.

10. Personalised care:
Dental care should be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of each patient. Patients should feel comfortable discussing their concerns and choices with their dental provider to ensure a personalised approach.

Empowered patients who are knowledgeable about their dental care can actively participate in their own oral health journey, make informed decisions, and work collaboratively with their dental professionals to achieve and maintain a healthy smile.