By: Dr. Lewis Yu and Dr. Grace Liu

Picture yourself going to your dentist or doctor! You are not feeling well and a rather unsmiling person slides open a glass partition just a crack and asks you to sign in on a clipboard or worse yet, says “Just take a seat and we’ll be with you.” Then she calls out—- NEXT. You sit waiting with only a magazine from 2005 available and everyone looks like this is the last place on earth that they would want to be. And you are investing your care to this practice? When you go to a dentist or doctor, do you feel that you are being treated like a person or simply rushed in and out without your needs being met, or your concerns heard?

So what do you want? A professional team that treats you with respect and dignity, naturally – but how about physical and emotional comfort, integrity and honesty, timeliness, cleanliness, good communication and affordable payment options? Sounds like a lot, doesn’t it?  But it shouldn’t be. We were always taught- do unto others as we would like to be treated. So why is that so difficult? Let’s look at some of the key requirements you should find when you go to your health care provider.

COMMUNICATION

It should not be too much trouble to be able to speak to our patients, one on one, giving them our undivided attention. You should be able to have us listen to your concerns, and have a conversation in which the language is in layman’s terms. And, importantly- to have feedback from the patient.  Gone are the days of whatever the doctor says being the final word. It is more beneficial to have a two-way conversation between the patient and the doctor to decide the best course of treatment.  The patient should have a clear understanding of what their expectations of the visit is, what procedures will be performed that day and what their responsibilities will be following their visit. You should also know how the office works, in case of an emergency. An explanation of what we are going to do-before we do it, should be expected.

FINANCIAL OPTIONS

We understand that these are tough economic times. Money is tight and there must be priorities on how we wisely spend our money. You should ask if there are options for your treatment and have the team explain affordable financial options in which to take care of your treatment. Remember, your overall health is the most important, most valuable possession that you have. If you invest wisely in caring for your dental health with regular hygiene visits, you can prevent or reduce other health concerns. As we spoke about in the previous Journal issue, there is a correlation between the bacteria present in your mouth and the diseases that occur in your body such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, some forms of cancer, low weight, pre-term babies, etc.  Also, if the muscles, jaw and joints are in alignment (their most natural position), then you might enjoy relief from headaches, neck and muscle pain, grinding, stress, etc.

Insurance can play a role in your selection of a provider, however, before you make that decision, know exactly what benefits your insurance covers and what your financial obligations may be. A team that is concerned about you and your family, works with you to try to maximize your insurance benefits, offers an affordable method for financing the balance and provides exceptional customer service will always be a better investment to an insurance plan that dictates the kind of care that you need and will only pay for the least alternative method of treatment. An investment in your health will always provide a beneficial return.

ATTITUDE

“Everything was great. I was greeted with a little humor, which I love. Nothing better than going to an appointment or business and the folks are uplifting and happy. The service was outstanding. Keep it up and everyone will be happy to visit the dentist!” ~Dennis

“Planning on switching my husband and son over soon so that should tell you how much I like your services. Even though I’m a chicken when it comes to having to come to a dentist, all employees make me feel comfortable!” ~Louise

“Flexibility and payment options are appreciated in light of the economic pressures most of us are feeling.” ~Johnnye

“No need to change anything. Everyone is always pleasant and most accommodating.”  ~Norine

“I am always satisfied with the service, professionalism, and dental services that I receive- keep up the good work.” ~Stephen

You have so many options in selecting a provider, why not select a team that is happy, smiling and energetic, provides exceptional care and looks out for you and your family. Your dental visit should be comfortable. You deserve to have a WOW experience like the patients quoted above, and if not, perhaps it’s time for a change.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact all about smiles at 302-239-1641 or visit www.AllAboutSmilesde.com.

Dr. Lewis Yu earned his degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dentistry in 1996. He received two years of advanced post-graduate oral surgery training in both the New York City Hospital System and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. He continues his education through extensive training at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Studies and the Pankey Institute. He has practiced in Philadelphia and Newark, DE before joining All About Smiles, P.A. He is a member of the Delaware State Dental Society, American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. Grace Liu has been practicing dentistry since 1996 having earned her degree from the New York University School of Dentistry. She continued her education through post-graduate studies at Columbia University, the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Studies in Nevada and the Academy of General Dentistry. She is a member of the Delaware State Dental Society, American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the International Association of Comprehensive Aesthetics.

Dr. Grace Liu and Dr. Lewis Yu are married and have two children.

Publisher’s Note:
You will not find a more friendly practice than All About Smiles. On my last visit I overheard another patient say “This is more like going to the spa than being at a dentist’s office.” They manage to combine the latest technology, with an extremely pleasant staff that will leave you confident you are receiving the best dental treatment possible.