Be Clear, Objective and use Metaphors.

Use simple language. Show brief video animations when possible. Never over-complicate what can be said in fewer words. 

When talking about basic and then esthetic treatments I sometimes use this metaphor: 

“Your mouth is a house on fire at the moment. We first need to extinguish the fire. (Basic Treatments) Only after that can we think about painting the walls and place the furniture. (Functional and Esthetic treatments)”. 

Even the most intelligent patient will benefit from the use of this sort of communication and explanations. Create your own stages and metaphors and use them consistently.

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