Interesting take—I see where you're coming from, but personally, I'd argue that bedside manner isn't always something you need to pay extra for. When I had my bone graft done, the surgeon was actually one of the more affordable options I found, yet he had a great sense of humor and an easy-going way about him. Honestly, it made the whole experience way less intimidating. He cracked a few jokes, put me at ease, and genuinely seemed to care about how comfortable I felt.
Maybe I just got lucky, but I don't think empathy and good communication always correlate with higher fees. Some docs naturally have that ability to connect without charging a premium for it. Sure, skill and experience are critical, but having someone who can lighten the mood when you're nervous and lying there with your mouth wide open... that's priceless in my book.
That's reassuring to hear, actually. I'm scheduled for my first bone graft next month and honestly, I'm pretty anxious about it. Your story reminded me of when I had my wisdom teeth out—the dentist was super chill, chatting about Netflix shows and stuff, and it really helped calm my nerves. Makes me wonder... do you think surgeons with better bedside manners also tend to have smoother recoveries for their patients? Or is that just wishful thinking on my part?
Haha, your wisdom teeth story reminded me of when my kid had his tonsils out. Surgeon was cracking jokes about cartoons and ice cream flavors—totally eased the tension. Makes sense that relaxed patients might heal better... wonder if there's actual research backing that up?
Haha, that's awesome your surgeon had jokes ready—definitely helps ease nerves. I've read somewhere that stress hormones can slow down healing, so it makes sense that being relaxed might actually help recovery. When I had my veneers done, my dentist played stand-up comedy specials in the background. Weirdly enough, it made the whole thing fly by. Wonder if dentists and surgeons get trained on bedside humor these days or if it's just a personality thing...?
"Wonder if dentists and surgeons get trained on bedside humor these days or if it's just a personality thing...?"
Honestly, I think it's mostly personality. My surgeon was super professional but didn't crack a single joke, and I was a nervous wreck. Maybe next time I'll ask if they take requests for comedy specials...
