Chairside Connection: Setting patients up for success in 2023

How can you make 2023 better than previous years? By having better conversations with patients. Lee Somerville, RDH, of Philips shares ways to approach oral-systemic health with patients so the conversation makes an impact.
Jan. 30, 2023

We're all here to help our patients keep their teeth and stay healthy. I had a chance to spend time with Lee Somerville, RDH, who's the Philips professional education director. As such, she's learned a lot of ideas along the way for having effective conversations with your patients.

We all have patients who believe they're practicing great oral hygiene. But there are various reasons this often doesn't happen, whether the patient is careless or genuinely trying their best. It's our job to share ideas and products with them that will make a difference, and as a result will lead them to better overall health and quality of life. 

But how to have this conversation comfortably and effectively with patients? Listen to what Lee shares with me that will work in your office. Patients who listen and are compliant will help make 2023 one of your best years ever.

More Chairside Connection videos from Philips

The connection between nutrition and oral-systemic health
Mental health and the oral connection

To watch more informative videos from industry leaders on a variety of topics, visit dentistryiq.com/videos or dentaleconomics.com/videos.

About the Author

Pamela Maragliano, DMD

Pamela Maragliano, DMD, is the chief editor of Dental Economics. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, Dr. Maragliano began her clinical career as a dental hygienist. She went on to attend Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her doctorate in dental medicine. She then attended the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dental Medicine, where she became board-certified in prosthodontics. Dr. Maragliano owns a private practice, Salem Dental Arts, and lectures on a variety of clinical topics. You may contact her at [email protected].

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