Pass the Remote

A recent trend in dental technology is not directly related to tools or armamentarium, but rather to patient care and comfort. A growing number of dentists are installing ceiling-mounted televisions in their operatories. These televisions allow any patient, fearful or calm, a distraction from the sometimes unpleasant task at hand. I guess it should not come as a surprise that many of my patients enjoy looking at anything other than a dingy ceiling while in the chair. Patients may enjoy the distracting entertainment, but I worry about a lack of focus and communication between patient and dentist in this situation. Will having a television make my day run slightly slower knowing I may have to repeat myself for routine requests like “open big for me”, or “turn toward me,” or will the added patient comfort and ease allow me to more quickly begin and complete procedures? No matter the answer, in a patient-centered practice, I believe more and more dentists across the country will soon adopt this office accessory.

Guest Geek, Katherine Dubois, Tufts Dental Student