moving towards clinic: applying principles of behavioral science through patient counseling

lecture given 5/1/2026

how should you prepare for patient counseling?

carefully review the patient’s medical history and chart

set the right environment

clarify the purpose

communication tips for counseling

speak clearly and simply- avoid jargon, use plain language and relatable examples

check understanding regularly- pause and ask does this make sense so far

use visual aids- show models, diagrams, or images to illustrate key points

acknowledge emotions- recognize concerns, anxieties, or fears with empathy

how can you ensure patient engagement and follow up?

summarize key points- recap advice and instruction at the end of the session (OARS)

encourage questions- ask what questions do you have for me

provide written instructions- hand out brochures or written care instructions when appropriate

document counseling- record what was discussed and agreed upon in the patient’s chart

arrange follow up- offer a clear plan for next steps or future appointments

teach back method

confiming patient understanding

a communication technique to ensure patients understand dental information- the provider asks the patients to explain information in their own words

focuses on how well we explain, not testing the patient

why does the teach back method matter in dentistry?

improves patient adherence to oral hygiene and treatment plans

reduces misunderstandings about procedures, medications, and post op care

supports patient-centered, ethical, and safe practice

interprofessional referral

a request for evaluation, diagnosis, or management by another health professional

goal is to address a condition outside of the dentist’s scope or requiring collaborative care

these often influence overall treatment planning, not just a single procedure

what is the difference between an interprofessional referral and medical clearance?

medical clearance is a procedural risk assessement, not a transfer of decision-making

why are SOAP noates used in counseling and behavioral science?

organize pts reported throughts, feelings, and concerns

document observable behaviors and measurable data

support clinician formulation and interpretation of client needs

guide treatment planning, interventions, and goals

promote continuity of care across counseling session

improve communication among multidisciplinary care teams

encourage ethical, professional, and consistent documentation

provide a clear legal record of counseling services delivered

S in soap

subjective

what the patient reports, feels, believes, or is motivated by

o in soap

objective

waht you observed, measured, or verified clinically

can include plaque levels, gingival inflammation/bleeding, caries risk indicators, ect

a in soap

assessment

your professional judgement about the patient’s condition, behaviors, and risk

include assessment of oral health status related to behavior, patient’s stage of change in TTM, risk assessment, effectiveness or limitations of current behaviors

p in soap

plan

what you did and what will happen next

behavioral counseling provided, education methods, agreed-upon goals, ect

during the examination of your new 32-year-old patient Tom, you identify he has eight teeth with untreated decay. As part of the medical history of review, Tom reports that he brushes his teeth 2 to 3 times a day and flosses every day. There is a moderate amount of plaque on the teeth, but no signs of periodontal disease. Think about what additional information you would want to gather from Tom. From what you know, a referral to, which of the following health, professional professionals would be most helpful to Tom if he wants to improve his oral health?

a) nurse practitioner

b) physical therapist

c) pharmacist

d) registered dietitian

d) registered dietitian