Service with a smile.

I have just returned from a family trip to EuroDisney, Paris. Four days of "living the American dream" and trying to look brave infront of the children on 'those' rides!

When I look back on the experience, I am most struck by the quality of service that was offered by everyone we came across; whether it was the staff on EuroStar who send us on our way at the beginning; the hotel personnel in all their many roles or those who made every effort to make our days in Disney as fun and enjoyable as possible.

It was lovely recently to have the practice complimented, not just recognising the role of the 'in surgery' team, but of the warm greeting that they had experienced when they arrived at the reception desk and the overall general atmosphere.

In many ways our patients are on a journey when they come to to see us, and, as with any journey, this can begin even before they physically arrive at the practice - perhaps on the end of a telephone. How important those first few moments of a conversation are!

Each stage of a patients visit is therefore of equal importance whether they are arriving, being treated or leaving.

Ultimately, how we make the journey reflects how we view the experience. Hopefully, at Heathcote House, we are successful in providing a journey that is smooth, efficient and, of course, painless! Why not let me know about your experience?

What are the benefits of Dentistry?

"Nobody likes Dentistry-!"
Now isn't that a bold statement to make on a dental web site! Let me explain.
I remember being given this advice many years ago when I first entered general practice, by a dentist who was soon to retire. Although what he said may seem negative at first sight, it was his second comment which clarified it and put it into context.
"They enjoy the benefits that dentistry brings"
Taken together, these two comments make all the difference.
So how does this influence the way I approach the practice of dentistry?
Well, to put it bluntly, it underpins my whole philosophy.
It means that before I start providing any treatment:

• I must always make sure that the benefits to the patient are clearly understood by my dental team as well as the patient and reflected in my planning.
• That these benefits are based on improving the quality of life for the patient
• That these benefits can enhance their lifestyles
• That cosmetic changes to the teeth can radically increase feelings of self-confidence, self worth and self-esteem
• That I remember that all patients are anxious when they undergo dental procedures and that some are in fact extremely worried!

What is really great for me is that if I continue to make these statements my goal, dental treatment will always be fun, exciting and enjoyable and provide my patients with the benefits that will enhance their lives.
What more could I ask for?