Is humour the unsung hero of dental consent?

The comedy of errors: Biju Krishnan explains why patient education in dental consent is no laughing matter.

Patient education is a critical component of the informed consent process in dentistry. It ensures that patients understand their treatment options, the associated risks and benefits, and the implications of their decisions. 

Let’s face it: from a patient’s perspective, sitting in the dental chair with your mouth propped open by what feels like a medieval torture device isn’t anyone’s idea of fun. Add to that a dentist brandishing sharp instruments while explaining a procedure they barely understand, and you’re left wondering if you accidentally stumbled onto the set of Marathon Man (old reference which most of you won’t get so Google it!).

But there’s one thing that could save this scene from spiralling into a (not so funny) comedy of errors – patient education in dental consent.

Say ‘yes’ (or ‘no’) with confidence

Informed consent is more than a patient scribbling their signature on a piece of paper. It’s a process – a two-way street where the dentist provides all the information, and the patient has the power to make an informed decision. Without patient education, consent is about as meaningful as brushing your teeth with candy floss.

Imagine a dentist mumbling jargon like ‘extraction’ and ‘peri-apical abscess’ while the patient nods nervously, pretending to understand. Fast forward to post-procedure: the patient is upset (best case scenario) because they thought they were getting a filling, not losing a tooth. Cue lawsuits, bad reviews, and possibly a starring role in a viral Tiktok rant. 

Proper education transforms these potential disasters into empowered decisions. And let’s be honest, isn’t it better to be known as ‘Dr Informative’ rather than ‘Dr Surprise Dentistry’?

Why skip the mystery?

Without patient education, dental consent becomes a game of charades – everyone is guessing, and no one is quite sure what’s being communicated. But unlike party games, clear explanations can turn confusion into confidence.

Let’s say a dentist casually mentions ‘roots,’ and the patient assumes they’re discussing a gardening hobby (and by the way this really happened). The outcome? A baffled patient post-procedure, holding their jaw and muttering: ‘I thought this was about tulips’ – clarity and explanation are vital.

Dentists, remember: your patients didn’t major in dental science. In fact, most barely understand flossing beyond ‘wiggle string between teeth.’ Explaining complex procedures in plain language – and maybe even using diagrams or videos – can make all the difference. And for goodness’ sake, avoid sounding like a Wikipedia entry. Nobody wants a dissertation while trying to keep their saliva from drooling onto their bib.

The pain of miscommunication

Ever had a patient say: ‘I didn’t know it would hurt this much!’ after a procedure? This sentence translates to: ‘I wasn’t adequately educated about what to expect.’ Cue awkward apologies and a lifetime supply of those free samples of toothpaste, which we’re supposed to give out to patients but always end up taking home for our personal secret stash – don’t lie, I know you all do it!

Uneducated patients may enter procedures with unrealistic expectations. Some think a crown is a sparkly accessory for their tooth, not a dull-coloured cap. Others believe ‘filling’ means you’ll be done in five minutes, like when they’re filling up their car. Thorough explanations – preferably with some humour and compassion – help manage these expectations and keep everyone on the same page.

Besides, an educated patient is more likely to follow post-procedure instructions. Want them to avoid crunchy snacks after that very large MOD (which really needs a crown but you’re hoping you’ll get away with it)? Explain why. If you just say: ‘Don’t do it,’ they may interpret it as a challenge. And then you’ll see them again next week, looking sheepish with a bag of caramel popcorn and lingual cusp in hand.

Humour: the unsung hero 

Dentists, let’s face it: consent forms and patient education sessions can feel about as exciting as watching a slow-motion video of plaque build-up. But sprinkle in a little humour, and suddenly you’re not just a dental professional – you’re the Michael McIntyre of molars! 

Telling a patient: ‘Don’t worry, this drill isn’t from B&Q’ or explaining cavities as ‘tiny squatters that forgot to pay rent’ can turn a nerve-wracking moment into a manageable one. 

Dentistry isn’t a comedy club, but a little humour goes a long way in easing anxiety and making education more digestible. 

Use analogies they can relate to. For example:

• Root canals are like cleaning out a blocked drain – you have to get rid of the gunk before sealing it shut
• Flossing is like vacuuming between the couch cushions. You’d be amazed at what’s hiding in there – and even more amazed at how much better it feels when it’s gone.

These bite-sized nuggets of wisdom stick better than dry explanations. Plus, laughter lowers stress levels, which is a win for everyone involved.

Technology meets transparency

Gone are the days when dentists relied solely on words and crude illustrations to explain procedures. 

Now, intraoral cameras, digital scans, 3D imaging and enhanced consent procedures have revolutionised patient education.

Imagine showing a patient a high-definition image of their cavity, complete with a virtual tour of their decayed molar. Suddenly, the words ‘cavity filling’ aren’t abstract; they’re tangible. 

This tech-savvy transparency builds trust. Patients are more likely to consent – and stick to the plan – when they can see the problem for themselves.

The final word

Patient education in dental consent isn’t just about avoiding heart stopping letters from the GDC or boosting patient satisfaction – it’s about treating people with the respect they deserve. 

Nobody wants to feel like a clueless extra in their own healthcare story. By taking the time to educate, you’re not only fostering trust but also creating a loyal patient base who might actually recommend you to their friends (instead of warning them to run).

So, dear dentists, let’s trade the mystery for mastery. Educate your patients, make them laugh, and watch as they walk out of your practice informed, empowered, and maybe even smiling. 

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