Do you have go-to comforts for that first bonding appointment? I’m an orthodontic assistant and we’ve had success explaining each step and letting teens hold the suction and mirror, plus switching to iTero scans so there’s no gooey impressions, but I’d love ideas from dentists on what you do during long appointments (ours run 75–90 minutes) to keep patients relaxed without slowing the workflow.
Agree on the timing part — our appointments can feel long too! I’ve found that playing some calming music in the background really helps set a relaxed vibe. Have you tried letting patients choose their playlist? It can be a game changer.
It’s great that you’re having the teens hold the suction and mirror! For those longer appointments, I’ve seen some success with giving patients noise-canceling headphones and letting them listen to a podcast or audiobook they enjoy. It really helps them zone out a bit during the procedure.
I’ve had success with providing stress balls or fidget toys for patients to squeeze during longer appointments — it really gives them something to focus on, which can make a big difference in how relaxed they feel. Have you thought about incorporating relaxing scents, like lavender, in the office?