Interview with Harmony Medical Group’s Dental Experts
Interview with Dr Yalda Amini
What role do you believe empathy plays in patient relationships, especially in a field where anxiety is common?
Empathy is the foundation of building trust with patients, especially in dentistry where anxiety is prevalent. Many patients feel vulnerable during dental visits, so showing genuine understanding and compassion helps ease their fears. When patients feel heard and cared for, they are more likely to communicate openly, adhere to treatment plans, and return for regular check-ups. By acknowledging their concerns and providing reassurance, I aim to create a safe space where they feel comfortable and confident in the care they receive.
How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques, and why is continuous learning important in this field?
Staying updated with the latest advancements is essential in providing the highest standard of care. I regularly attend dental conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay informed about emerging technologies and innovative techniques. I also follow reputable dental journals and participate in online forums for professional development. Continuous learning is important because dentistry is constantly evolving — newer technologies often mean less invasive procedures, faster recovery times, and better overall outcomes for patients. By staying current, I can offer my patients the most effective and comfortable treatment options.
What strategies do you use to create a welcoming environment for patients, especially women who may feel apprehensive about dental visits?
Creating a welcoming environment starts with building a connection from the moment the patient walks in. I make it a point to greet patients warmly and engage in light conversation to ease any tension. For women who may feel apprehensive, I prioritize active listening and take time to explain each step of the procedure to ensure they feel in control. I also focus on maintaining a calm, comforting atmosphere with a well-trained, empathetic team and a clean, relaxing environment. Offering flexible appointment times, gentle treatment approaches, and encouraging patients to voice their concerns all contribute to a more positive and empowering dental experience.
Interview with Dr Maria Rosta- Dental Hygienist
Can you share a personal story about how a patient’s smile transformation positively impacted their life and your approach to dentistry?
I once treated a patient who had a significant fear of dentists and had never seen a hygienist. His teeth were covered in tartar, plaque, and a noticeable odor, and he hadn’t received dental care in years. Understanding the importance of building trust, I took extra time to explain every step of the procedure, offering him breaks and reassurances that he could stop at any time.
We started with a deep cleaning and root planing, moving at a pace that felt comfortable for him. Afterwards, we completed a whitening treatment, and the transformation was incredible.
A few days later, he called to thank me, expressing how much his smile had boosted his confidence. He told me that for the first time in years, he felt proud to smile again. This experience reinforced the importance of empathy and patience in dentistry, reminding me that it’s not just about dental care – it’s about helping patients regain their confidence and quality of life.
How do you educate your patients about the importance of oral hygiene beyond just dental visits?
I educate my patients about the importance of oral hygiene by emphasizing that it goes beyond just their dental visits. I take the time to explain the role of daily habits in maintaining long-term oral health, offering personalized advice on proper brushing techniques, the use of fluoride toothpaste, and the importance of flossing/inter dental brushing I also discuss how diet, lifestyle choices, and regular self-examinations can impact their oral health. By using follow-up appointments, educational materials and digital resources, I make sure my patients stay informed and motivated to maintain good oral hygiene every day.
In your experience, what are some common misconceptions people have about dental health, and how do you address them?
One of the most common misconceptions people have about dental health is that brushing alone is enough to maintain a healthy mouth. Many patients are surprised to learn that flossing is just as crucial in preventing gum disease and cavities. Another misconception is that oral health is limited to the teeth, when in fact, the health of the gums, tongue, and entire oral environment is vital. I also emphasize the strong connection between oral health and overall health, explaining how poor oral hygiene can contribute to or even lead to systemic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. By educating my patients on the importance of a complete oral care routine including brushing, flossing and regular checkups, I help them understand how their oral health can significantly impact their overall well-being.
Can you discuss a time when you faced a challenge related to patient care and how it influenced your perspective on dentistry?
One significant challenge I faced involved a patient who had long refused to take X-rays or radiographs, despite my repeated recommendations. They were apprehensive about the process and did not fully understand the importance of radiographs in detecting issues beyond what is visible during a regular examination. After discussing the potential risks of undiagnosed conditions, I was able to convince them to proceed with the radiographs. When the images were taken, I identified an area of concern that appeared to be consistent with oral cancer, although diagnosing it was beyond my scope of practice. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, I immediately referred the patient to a specialist for further consultation. This experience reinforced the life-saving value of routine radiographs and highlighted the critical role they play in early detection of serious conditions. It also deepened my understanding of how patient education and trust are essential in guiding individuals toward decisions that could ultimately save their lives. This experience has influenced my approach to dentistry, emphasizing the need to ensure patients fully understand the potential long-term benefits of preventive care, including diagnostic tools like X-rays-radiographs.
TAGGED :
HARMONY
DENTAL
DUBAI
HEALTH & WELLNESS
