Jo*mar,

I agree with you, patients should be told the what ifs and be given the options to be able to make informed decisions. Typically, dentists do not offer options unless the patient states their uncertainty about the treatment plan or they specifically request to know the options. Dentists are not trained on chair side manner or how to discuss dentistry in detail with their patients. They are trained more specifically on how to perform dental procedures. That is the main focus of the majority of their education. Dentists who do not want to take the time to discuss options but feel the patient has the right to be informed of the options will hire someone to do the communicating for them and give them the role of the liaison between the dentist and the patient. But not all dentists feel it's necessary for the patient to become more informed so they hire staff who is basically uninformed and they typically will offer options if pressed to do so by the patient.

Due to the antiquated curriculum being taught in most dental schools, dentists need to seek additional education if they want to even remotely think outside of the box. But I think the public is becoming self informed on many dental issues which forces the profession to become better communicators. Which is a good thing!

Bryanna