13.1

Interpersonal Skills

Communication is a process, not an event. The dental radiographer needs good interpersonal skills to communicate. Interpersonal skills include communication skills, which involve verbal, nonverbal, and listening skills. Facilitation skills are also required as a radiographer.

A dental radiographer who is able to function as a successful professional and has a knowledge of the psychology of individuals and groups can motivate interoffice communication.

Below are images of examples that show positive skills that promote good relationships between individuals.

However, this image shows an example of poor interpersonal skills. Standing with folded arms is a type of posture that signals indifference and coldness, the principal negative barrier to communication.

Communication Skills

Communication is the process by which information is exchanged between two or more persons. Communication skills include verbal, nonverbal, and listening. Good communication is the backbone of a well-run organization, and always remember that patients are the key to your success. Eye contact is an important piece to remember when communicating. It helps regulate the flow of communication and listening requires a great deal of self-control and concentration. Lack of communication is the primary reason why patients leave a practice.

Facilitation Skills

Facilitation means the act of making something easier. Facilitative skills should enhance patient trust. A dental radiographer should encourage the patient to ask questions, and the patient should feel cared for.

Interpersonal skills are used to ease communication and develop a trusting relationship between the dental professional and the patient by encouraging questions, answering questions, responding with action, and expressing warmth.

Patient Relations

There are various kinds of patient relations, which include first impressions, chairside manner, and attitude. The relationship between the patient and the dental professional s is important to all dental professionals: the dentist, the dental hygienist, and the dental assistant.

First Impressions

The patient’s first impression of the dental team most often involves the dental auxiliary, who must be well groomed, have personal hygiene, and properly greet the patient. Patients should always be greeted in the reception area by the proper title.

In the Iannucci & Howerton, Dental Radiography Principles & Techniques, 6th Edition textbook on pages 130 – 131, refer to Helpful Hints Figure 13-2, and First Impressions Checklist Figure 13-3.

Chairside Manner

Chairside manner is the way a dental professional conducts himself or herself at the patient’s chairside. They should be relaxing for the patient, confident and avoid statements that indicate a lack of control. (e.g. oops!)

Attitude

Attitude is a position of the body or manner of carrying oneself, indicative of a mood. A dental professional should be professional, polite, courteous, patient, and honest with all patients at all times. Some procedures are uncomfortable in dental radiography; the dental radiographer must be honest and upfront with the patient.

Media Attributions

• Iannucci & Howerton: Dental Radiography Principle, 6th Edition, Chapter 13, CC BY-NC-ND