I've been practicing periodontics for decades, and I can tell you with absolute certainty

that the most common cause of complications, misunderstandings, and patient

dissatisfaction isn't technical skill or clinical judgment. It's communication.

More specifically, it's the failure to ensure that our patients truly

understand what we're telling them. In this episode, I share the critical distinction

between informed consent and making excuses. I also explain why that difference

can make or break your practice, your reputation, and most importantly, your

patient outcomes.

When a procedure doesn't go as planned, we often look for clinical explanations. But the

real breakdown usually happened long before the patient sat in the chair.

It happened to me after a conversation where we thought we had explained the

risks, but the patient didn't truly understand them. I discuss why the

responsibility for understanding rests squarely on our shoulders as

practitioners, not on our patients.

Join me in this episode as I break down the communication strategies that have protected

my patients, my practice, and my peace of mind for over thirty years in periodontics.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

• How to distinguish between true informed consent and reactive excuse-making

• Why the practitioner bears full responsibility for patient understanding

• The limitations of text messages, emails, and voicemails in healthcare

communication

• Practical strategies for ensuring patients genuinely comprehend treatment risks

• When to refuse to proceed with treatment due to inadequate communication

• How "clear is kind" applies to dental and medical practice

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients