Patients trust their dentists, and with GP orthodontics, that trust only grows. 

In dentistry, the principle of “do no harm” is deeply ingrained in the minds of practitioners. Also known as nonmaleficence, this ethical principle emphasizes avoiding inflicting harm upon others. It acknowledges the inherent vulnerability of patients and emphasizes the dentist’s responsibility to uphold their well-being throughout all aspects of treatment. Dentists, especially those considering incorporating orthodontics into their practices, understand the importance of offering treatments that prioritize their patients’ well-being and long-term health. 

And what is exceptionally interesting about this concept is that many patients trust their dentist more than their clergy, banker, or judge. It’s true! Dentists are widely regarded as highly honest and ethical professionals, according to a Gallup poll where dentists consistently ranked among the most trusted professionals. This reputation further highlights the significance of dentists upholding the principle of nonmaleficence.

In this article, we will explore how general practitioner (GP) orthodontics aligns with the principle of nonmaleficence, allowing dentists to contribute to the welfare of their patients by offering comprehensive orthodontic care alongside their existing dental services.

The Value of GP Orthodontics in Retaining Patients and Enhancing Treatment Outcomes

Offering GP orthodontics in your dental practice aligns with the principle of nonmaleficence by providing significant value in patient retention and optimal treatment outcome. Consider that dentists, as with medical providers, abide by the following core beliefs in their practices:

• Do not inflict harm.
• Prevent harm.
• Remove harm.
• Do or promote good.

By integrating orthodontic services into your practice, you can become a one-stop shop that addresses the underlying dental concerns of your patients, ultimately minimizing the risk of potential harm and enhancing treatment success.

Patients trust that their dentist is a reliable source for their oral health needs. However, if your practice does not offer orthodontic services, patients may seek treatment from other providers before returning to your practice for additional cosmetic or restorative procedures. 

Becoming a one-stop shop for dental and orthodontic treatment elevates patient care.

Consider this example: A patient opts for veneers to achieve the appearance of straight teeth without addressing their underlying orthodontic issues. While veneers will provide cosmetic improvement, they are not a substitute for proper orthodontic treatment. Placing veneers without addressing the underlying malocclusion can lead to an increased risk of decay and gum disease due to difficulties in oral hygiene maintenance, as well as a higher likelihood of needing more extensive tooth structure removal in future restorations. By offering orthodontics, you can guide patients toward (or at least present patients with) the best treatment plan to ensure they receive the most appropriate and beneficial care for their needs.

Moreover, by incorporating GP orthodontics, you provide your patients with a comprehensive treatment approach that focuses on both the aesthetic aspects and long-term oral health. You lay a solid foundation for subsequent cosmetic or restorative work by addressing bite irregularities through orthodontic intervention. This approach minimizes the risk of potential complications and maximizes the success of the overall treatment plan. Patients appreciate the convenience and continuity of care they receive from dentists who provide comprehensive orthodontic services, strengthening their trust and loyalty to those practices.

By embracing GP orthodontics, you not only enhance your ability to do no harm but also provide a valuable service to your patients. Keeping patients in-house for their orthodontic needs ensures continuity of care and enables you to guide them toward the best treatment outcomes. And by being able to address their orthodontic concerns before proceeding with other cosmetic or restorative work, you contribute to your patients’ long-term oral health and satisfaction.

Build trust and patient satisfaction using GP orthodontics. 

Integrating GP orthodontics into your dental practice not only upholds the principle of nonmaleficence but also enhances patient retention, treatment outcomes, and overall satisfaction. By offering comprehensive orthodontic services, you build trust and provide a holistic approach to care, addressing underlying dental concerns and optimizing long-term oral health. 

To take the first step in expanding your skills and incorporating orthodontics into your practice, we encourage you to get your feet wet by signing up for orthodontic courses for dentists through Synergy Orthodontic Seminars. Expand your expertise, broaden your service offerings, and continue to prioritize the well-being of your patients through the transformative power of GP orthodontics.