Soft Skills: A Necessity for Successful Dental Practice
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: We are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of communication skills, not only in dental practice management but also in academics and administration. It is not surprising that these days extra marks are being allocated in the final undergraduate and postgraduate dental examinations, in each specialty, specifically for communication skills. The objective is to raise the next-generation dentists who can communicate effectively. Communication skills are just one of the key soft skills required in dental practice. Soft skills enable the dentists to build a good rapport with the patients and manage anxieties, thus contributing to patient satisfaction and enhanced treatment outcomes. Thus, the dentist maintains a positive environment in the clinic and ultimately builds a strong reputation. Apart from communication skills, the other soft skills a dentist should nurture are empathy toward patients, adherence to professional and ethical standards, the ability to rise up to different patient challenges, and remain calm and composed. He/she should keep in mind that the actions and behavior are continuously judged by the patient. Right from the patient’s first visit, the dentist should show empathy toward their problem. The patient narrates the complaint, based on which a diagnosis is made. Hence, it is important to actively listen to the complaint and reassure the patient that he is at the right place for treatment. The dentist should instill confidence in the patient, without showcasing any anxiety, however challenging the case may be. Patient education is a key area in dental treatment. Once the diagnosis and treatment are planned, the patient should be made aware of his case through proper communication. It is important to convey dental procedures and treatment options through simple words. Here, the effective communication plays a vital role. Prior to initiating treatment, the dentist should make sure that he has created a good rapport with the patient, who should feel comfortable and confident to undergo the procedure. While treating children, “Tell Show Do” technique is a method used to help children feel more comfortable during dental procedures. Now, the question arises, on how do we build empathy and effective communication skill? There are various training programs and workshops which provide valuable insights to inculcate soft skills. Apart from the dental office, communication has a key role in dental institutions, both in teaching and administration. Dental institutions should conduct regular soft skill development programs for the students, the teaching staff as well as the nonteaching staff. Dental students can observe and learn communication skills from their mentors when they treat patients. The faculty can regularly share their experiences in treating patients with students. Continuing Dental Education is important in refining both clinical and communication skills. Acquiring knowledge and developing and maintaining skills is a continuous process. One must navigate changes to collaboratively achieve goals. Building strong communication skills is certainly the need of the hour.
Author: Deepa Das Achath
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4409206419