Dentistry was previously a male dominated occupation like all other medical careers. However, this is no longer the case. There has been a 44% increase in the number of female dentists in the past ten years. Today, female dentists account for over 34% of all new active private practitioners. Dr. Inoue-Cheng, a dentist in Oakville, ON, is increasing those numbers and changing perceptions of one patient at a time.
Some people are still skeptical about visiting a female dentist because they believe male dentists are more skilled and competent. Some patients are reluctant to sit in front of a woman and have her treat them. However, the numerous advantages of female dentists have led to their rise in popularity. Various studies have been conducted on the topic suggesting that women make better and more receptive dentists.
This article has been written to help people see the advantages of having a female dentist treat them. Although Dr. Inoue-Cheng is a female dentist, by no means is there any intent to suggest female dentists are superior to their male counterparts. The focus of this article is to point out the unique characteristics that female dentists possess, which can be beneficial when treating dental patients.
The 9 reasons why you should choose a female dentist:
1. Small Hands:
Women dentists have smaller hands compared to their male counterparts. Even though this might seem unrelated, smaller hands are better for patients. Female dentists have the advantage of easily maneuvering and accessing hard to reach areas inside the mouth. When performing different dental procedures, smaller hands are better and less intrusive. This enables women dentists to deliver quality work.
2. Soft Touch:
Female dentists have a soft touch. This means that patients who are scared of visiting a dentist should not worry as they will be gently dealt with. The soothing and calm touch of a female dentist is thus highly preferred. Female dentists who have a soft touch can also put patients who are scared of needles and shots at ease.
3. Compassionate:
Women tend to be more compassionate than men. They have the patience and empathy required to deal with numerous patients. For first timers especially, female dentists can put new patients at ease.
4. Greater Listening Ability:
Several studies conducted by medical experts have proven that women dentists are better listeners. Listening carefully and understanding the patient’s needs is an important part of dentistry. For any dental condition, information conveyed to the dentist by the patient is of high importance. Each patient’s experience is different. Their symptoms will also be different. Hence, a dentist needs to be well informed about a patient’s condition and medical history in order to deliver the right treatment. Research has shown that female dentists spend more time and give more attention to their patients – approximately 10% more than male dentists do. Therefore, patients of female dentists are more likely to have an in-depth discussion with their dentist.
According to Forbes:
“But what’s really interesting is that patients respond differently to women in white coats than they do to men. Both female and male patients are more assertive with female doctors. They interrupt more, and they ask more questions. And patients who are more involved in their own care may stay healthier. They’re less likely to be the victim of medical error. They’re more able to question the information they might find online or in drug company advertisements. They may be more likely to call their doctor and question certain symptoms or diagnoses.”
5. Minimally Invasive Dentistry:
Women’s approach is more conservative in restorative dentistry and also more prevention-focused than their male counterparts, leading to more positive and less expensive outcomes (studies confirm).
Unnecessary and forceful care is not a norm with women. Female dentists simply choose the treatment which is best suited for the patient according to their symptoms. There are various studies which have analyzed the numerous differences between genders in the dental care industry. One of these studies discovered that female dentists typically recommended at-home fluoride treatment whereas male dentists prefer in-office fluoride treatment for most of their patients. Many studies have also discovered that female dentists are more likely to follow clinical guidelines along with evidence-based practices than male dentists.
6. More Attentive:
It has been proven that female dentists are more attentive while treating patients. They dedicate their time entirely to the patient. This allows them to deliver high-quality care as they are more observant and have the tendency to finish their treatment faster than male dentists.
7. Always Open To Learning New Techniques:
This is one of the most important characteristics that female dentists possess. They are always open to learning new techniques in order to improve their dental practice. Compared to male dentists, they like to continuously update their knowledge and learn new techniques regarding dental care. Due to this reason, they are up to date with the latest techniques and procedures, which can be used to treat patients’ problems effectively.
8. More Empathetic:
Empathy is also required to become a good dentist. Unfriendly dentists are less likely to get sufficient information from their patients which can be crucial for making the correct diagnosis. One study even discovered that dentists who are uninvolved with their patients can make more mistakes and cause serious damage. It is a known fact that female dentists are more empathic than male dentists.
9. Less Egotistical:
Women are less egotistical and more confident. Even if patients are at fault, they don’t like to be reminded again and again – a fact that is understood by female dentists. Male dentists prefer having their way at work and tend to disregard what the patient has to say. This attitude might seem condescending to patients and does nothing to make them feel comfortable around dentists.
The above-mentioned reasons are only some of the facts that make female dentists more approachable and likable than male dentists. Even though both genders have their advantages and disadvantages, these unique characteristics of female dentists make them a great choice.
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