Learn to be more empathetic. After seeing many patients, day after day, you may sometimes have difficulty showing true concern for any problems they may have. Whether it’s about an oral health issue or something personal that patients mention, try to imagine how you would feel under the same circumstances. Express this empathy in a supportive and comforting way. Patients really appreciate such treatment—almost as much as they appreciate excellent clinical care.

Improve your interpersonal communications skills. Learn how to earn the respect and trust of your patients with techniques explained by Dr. Levin in his free video, “Get Along with Everyone.” To watch it, click here.