Why Do Dentists Talk To You While Your Mouth Is Open?

It’s quite funny when you think about it. You’re sitting in a dental chair, and what feels like ten dental instruments, cotton balls, etc. are resting in your mouth. Yet your dentist continues to try to engage you in conversation. Why? And more importantly, how exactly do we expect you to reply when your mouth is open and you can barely move your tongue? Well, the truth is that most of the time we don’t expect an elaborate response. A simple nod, thumbs up or down, or a groan will do. Yet, believe it or not, conversation during dental procedures is important. Here is why.

To Ease Dental Anxiety

Believe it or not, some patients are afraid of the dentist. Maybe they don’t have much experience dealing with an awesome, caring, and pain-free dentist like yours truly. However, I understand that needles, drills, and other dental tools can be intimidating. So, many times I use small talk to distract my patient, and I find that it helps to reduce dental anxiety. Small talk may include asking about family, work, or school.

To Communicate About Procedures

For most people, especially new patients or those who are not familiar with specific dental procedures, it could be a mysterious ritual where they have to put their physical well-being in the hands of a near-total stranger. That’s why sometimes I like to explain what I’m doing to make the patient part of the decision-making process as well as to give them control of knowing what is being done to their mouths. Whether you have a cavity, gingivitis or other dental concerns to discuss, I want to make sure you know about it.

Due To Lack Of Time

A dentist’s schedule is typically pretty packed. I might have to attend to another patient right after your dental exam, and sometimes there’s just not enough time at the end to have a full conversation – at least, not one that covers your life outside of your oral health. I want to make sure that you understand exactly what’s going on in your mouth, and I also want to know a little bit about you, even if you can only nod or wink in response.

Dentists Are People Too

While a dentist might seem scary or intimidating, I hope you know that we too have feelings and need human interaction. We build a relationship over the years that we see each other. Many times, you see your dentist more often than any other healthcare professional. And I am not indifferent to what’s going on in your life. I love catching up with patients and learning about what you’ve been up to whenever there’s an opportunity.

You should feel comfortable with your dentist, and if you don’t, it’s time to find a new office with a provider that you enjoy visiting. If you’d rather be quiet during exams, you should also feel comfortable telling me “Would it be ok if I didn’t talk today?” You’ll never offend me or hurt my feelings by politely asking if you can just sit back and relax.

I am Dr. Slepak, your very favorite dentist. Let me know if you found this interesting. And don’t forget to schedule your routine check-ups twice a year. Call today to schedule an appointment: 718.998.2424. My office is located at 2464 Coney Island Ave., Brooklyn NY.