I believe that most dentists became doctors to help. Dental Medical School is an expensive, amazing whirlwind experience. So much to learn and the target keeps moving in that technology keeps changing. Much of what I was taught in 1977-1981 is no longer accurate, applicable, optimum or standard of care.

So we “practice” our craft of fixing teeth and gums, and we become proficient. Unfortunately, a good “carpenter” of the teeth is not necessarily a great healer or compassionate dentist.

Human skills such as communication, gentleness, empathy, and good judgement are not taught in dental schools.

Then the dental school graduate is thrust into our health care system. Whether in private practice, corporate office (i.e. Aspen Dental) or a clinic, somebody has to pay for the building, equipment, staffing, supplies, etc. Don’t get me wrong, most dentists earn an excellent return on these investments and enjoy a top income level.

Unfortunately, the system encourages time limits on patient appointments, delegation of communications and tasks to lesser trained assistants, and a fee schedule that can be out of reach for many.

There is no simple solution to improve our current dental care delivery systems. However, I believe everybody values individual attention and enjoys being treated as a friend and not a time slot. Dentists may not always be reimbursed for the extra time needed by some patients. My personal belief is that, in the final analysis—their practices, lives and souls will benefit from going beyond the “time slot”.

Dr. Alan Ross, Keene Family Dental, 67 Mechanic Street, Keene, NH 03431 Phone: 603-357-6767