How to Choose the RIGHT Patient for Dental Procedures: Dr. Ramon Meda Gomez

Sitting across the table at the Dubai based podcast studio, Dr. Gomez’s comes alive as he discusses one of his many talents in dentistry, the art of studying a patient’s mental strength - and picking up if they are mentally strong enough to last the procedure.

“Choosing the right patient for dental procedures is a critical step in ensuring the success and longevity of treatments. While techniques and materials have advanced significantly, the importance of patient selection remains paramount.”

His words are said with a sense of absolution.

In this article, we delve into the key criteria for selecting the right patient, common mistakes to avoid, and the evaluation process, enriched with expert insights from a recent interview with Dr. Ramon Meda Gomez.

The Importance of Patient Selection

Selecting the right patient is fundamental to the success of any dental procedure. This principle is especially true for complex treatments such as Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR). Even the most advanced techniques can fail if the patient selection is not appropriate.

Q: Why is patient selection so crucial for dental procedures?

A: Patient selection is the cornerstone of successful dental treatment. Proper patient selection ensures that the conditions are optimal for the procedure to work effectively. This concept is well-documented in dental textbooks, particularly for procedures like GTR.

Criteria for Patient Selection

High compliance and excellent oral hygiene are essential criteria for selecting the right patient. Here are some of the key factors to consider:

Oral Hygiene:

• The patient’s oral hygiene must be excellent, almost perfect, with no plaque buildup.
• It is vital to assess the patient's daily oral care routine.

Gum Health:

• Thoroughly examine the gums and overall oral health before proceeding with surgery.
• Visual and clinical examinations are necessary alongside radiographs.

Patient Psychology:

• When selecting the right patient for an extensive dental treatment plan, it is crucial to consider not only their physical health but also their mental resilience.
• Long treatment plans often require the patient to adhere to specific dietary restrictions, such as extended periods on soft food diets.
• This can be challenging and may take a toll on their mental well-being, as patients might experience discomfort and pain during various stages of the treatment.

Q: What are the specific criteria you look for in a patient before proceeding with surgery?

A: look for high compliance and excellent oral hygiene. The patient's gums should be in good condition, free from plaque. Radiographs alone are not sufficient; we need to perform a comprehensive visual and clinical examination.

Common Mistakes in Patient Selection

Q: What are some common mistakes dentists make in patient selection?

A: One common mistake is relying solely on radiographs to decide on surgery. This approach overlooks the critical aspect of the patient's gum health. Often, the failure of a procedure is not due to poor technique but due to improper patient selection.

The Evaluation Process

A meticulous evaluation process is essential to ensure that the patient is suitable for the intended procedure. Here are the steps involved:

Thorough Examination:

• Dentists should thoroughly examine the patient’s oral hygiene habits.

Second Opinion:

• If unsure about the patient’s suitability, consider sending images or detailed information to colleagues or specialists for a second opinion.

The Strong Mind Theory:

• A patient’s ability to cope with temporary discomfort and lifestyle changes can significantly impact the success of the treatment.
• The dentist should engage in open and honest discussions with the patient, assessing their readiness and willingness to commit to the treatment plan.
• By carefully evaluating the patient’s mental and emotional state, the dentist can ensure that they are prepared to handle the demands of the treatment, ultimately leading to better outcomes and a more positive experience for the patient.

Q:How do you ensure that a patient is the right candidate for surgery?

A: I conduct a thorough examination of their oral hygiene habits. If there are any doubts, I seek a second opinion by sharing detailed information or images with colleagues.

Q: Do you find it more satisfying to handle complex cases?

A: Absolutely. Handling complex cases is more rewarding, but it requires a very careful selection process. Ensuring the patient is the right candidate is crucial for these high-risk procedures.

“Choosing the right patient is not just a procedural necessity but a crucial determinant of success in dental treatments."

Want More?

Do you wish to learn more of what Dr. Gomez discusses during the Charismatic Podcast?

You can watch the full episode here.