If you lived in a college town in the 90s like I did, you may remember the bumper sticker ‘Kill Your Television’. I’m reminded of it every time I walk into a dental practice and see a TV on in the operatory.  Notice I said TV, not monitor. There’s a big difference.

Having traveled all across the country, I’ve seen a lot when it comes to what’s being broadcast in some dental offices. From depressing commentary on the local economy to trashy talk shows to HGTV to graphic images of murder victims, I’ve seen each and every one of these shows blaring in dental operatories occupied by patients who came there to be cared for.

I know, I’m getting preachy here but I just can’t help it. Recently when I visited a lovely client whose ops are completely equipped with digital x-rays and intra-oral cameras I saw this in play. I cringed every time I heard the hygienists giving it their all to engage the patients in the hygiene exam only to see the patient’s gaze locked not on their care giver but rather on the local morning show.

If you’ve experienced this (or you know someone who has) here are some tips to rip yourself from the grips of TV in your office:

1-Discuss as a team and get EVERYONE on board to end the TV programs

2-Replace the programs immediately with x-rays and intra-oral photos on the monitor-this way patients won’t have to look at a blank screen

3-Agree to gently keep each other accountable-everyone has to be on board

4-See your enrollment success dramatically increase 😉