Funny, I had the opposite experience. My kid's dentist gave us every tiny detail—like, seriously, way too much info. By the time we got home, my son was convinced his face would balloon up like a cartoon character. Sometimes ignorance really is bliss... or at least less stressful for a 10-year-old (and his parents). Glad it worked out for you though!
That's interesting, because from my experience, it's always a tricky balance. I've seen some dentists who barely say anything, leaving patients (and parents!) totally in the dark, and others who go way overboard with details—like your son's dentist. Honestly, I think it comes down to reading the room and knowing your patient. Some kids (and adults too) actually feel calmer when they know exactly what's coming, step by step. Others... well, not so much.
I remember one kid who came into our office for a tooth extraction. His mom specifically asked us not to give too many details because he was already anxious. But halfway through the procedure, he started asking questions himself—like really detailed ones about what tools we were using and why. Turns out, knowing exactly what was happening made him feel more in control and less scared. Go figure.
But yeah, I totally get your point about information overload. Sometimes too much detail can backfire and create unnecessary anxiety—especially with younger kids who have vivid imaginations. It's definitely something dental professionals need to be mindful of.
I'm curious though, did your son's dentist use visuals or models to explain things? I've found that sometimes visuals can help kids understand without freaking them out as much as verbal descriptions alone. Or was it just a case of too much talking and not enough showing?
"Honestly, I think it comes down to reading the room and knowing your patient."
Couldn't agree more with this. I've had my fair share of dental procedures (unfortunately!), and I've noticed the best dentists are those who can adapt their communication style on the fly. I remember one dentist who started explaining my bone graft procedure in such vivid detail that I jokingly asked if he was narrating a horror audiobook. Thankfully, he laughed and switched gears, using a model instead. It made a huge difference—seeing it visually took away some of the anxiety that his overly descriptive words had created.
Visual aids definitely help, especially for complex procedures like bone grafts or implants. But even then, there's a fine line between helpful visuals and overwhelming diagrams that look like blueprints for building a spaceship. It's all about balance and being sensitive to how the patient is responding in real-time.
I get your point, but isn't there a risk that adapting communication too much can feel a bit...inauthentic? I'd rather have a dentist who's consistently clear and detailed, even if it's uncomfortable at first. At least I'd know exactly what's coming, you know?
Totally get where you're coming from—clarity beats sugarcoating any day. Had a dentist once who tried too hard to soften things, ended up feeling like a weird sales pitch... Give me the straight facts, even if they're a bit grim.
