Patients have a right to know

Over the past few years I've been extremely fortunate to have sat in the corner and watched dentists work with patients.

Time and time again I saw dentists assume that the patient wanted the cheapest treatment and not offer better alternatives. A common example is when patients come in with a broken tooth. The dentist would cheerily say "We can fix that!" and then do a filling even though a crown or an onlay would be a better alternative.

When I asked why they did not offer the onlay the dentist usually said that the patient would not want it or could not afford it. But, if the dentist hasn't asked the patient how can they say that? Is the dentist clairvoyant?

Let's do a simple thought experiment.Imagine you went to your medical practitioner for treatment of a condition. Let's say that there are two ways to handle this condition: One that produces OK results and is fully covered by Medibank so there is no out-of-pocket. And, one that produces much better results but has a $2,000 out-of-pocket.

How would you feel if your medical practitioner didn't tell you about the better alternative? Would you be angry? Would you be upset? Would you think that your medical practitioner failed in their duty?

Most dentist I ask, answer "yes" to all those questions.

So, always treat your patients with respect — give them the options and let them decide for themselves.