Motivating patients in the management of dental problems

Title: Motivating patients in the management of dental problems

Abstract:

One of the problems with treating periodontal disease as with other chronic dental conditions is that the patient requires continuous monitoring and therapy to prevent recurrence of the condition. Implicit in this management is the requirement on behalf of the patient to comply with the instructions proved by the clinician throughout the treatment and maintenance process. The issue of patient compliance, however is a problem that is also recognized by the Medical profession and the question arises is how to motivate a patient to be engaged in their own treatment. According to Khan et al. (2012) non-compliance can be due to several factors such as those that are 1) patient-centred, 2) therapy-related, or 3) healthcare system – related.   It is therefore essential for the clinician to establish a good rapport and close working partnership with the patient to help encourage changes in their behaviour to successful treat and manage the dental problem. In other words, there needs to be a collaborative relationship with both the clinician and the patient where the patient becomes more involved in their treatment and subsequently takes ownership or autonomy for their problem. The aim of the presentation is to address the various issues with patient compliance and the apparent lack of motivation in patients who fail to acknowledge their own responsibility in looking after their own health.

Biography:

David Geoffrey Gillam graduated from Edinburgh Dental School in 1977 and has been actively involved in Dentistry for over 45 years. He has worked in both clinical practice and university dental hospitals, as well as in industry (1998-2001), initially with SmithKline Beecham and later with Block Drug Company. From 2003 to 2008, he worked with a Clinical Research Organization as a Research Dentist. He also served as a full-time Clinical Reader (Associate Professor) in Translational Research related to Dentistry at Bart’s and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL in London (2009-2022). Currently, David is a part-time Professor at QMUL, although he no longer practices dentistry. His primary research interest lies in Periodontology, particularly the management of dentine hypersensitivity, and he has also developed an interest in the development of dental materials for both professional and consumer use. David has published over 100 papers on various dental topics and has contributed to several books, both as an Editor and as a chapter contributor.