Practice management
Case presentation
A case presentation is the conversation in which the dentist or team explains diagnosis, a recommended treatment plan, options and costs, and the patient decides how to proceed.
A case presentation turns a diagnosis into a decision. The ADA says a choreographed case presentation, which blends spoken words with non-verbal cues and visual aids, can increase patients' acceptance of recommendations. The ADA also notes that photographs can help a patient see the condition being treated, but a signed photography release is needed before images are taken, used or shared. The content of the talk is the treatment plan, including options, risks and fees. A patient who understands the plan is better placed to give informed consent. Practices often record the discussion in the chart.