faith and dentistry

[Smooth Operater]

After reading a thread on "faith and medicine" in the allopathic fourm, it triggers my experience with a religious dentist last year when he took out my wisdom teeth. Before the actual procedure began, he preached bunch of buddist proverbs at me and asked me to meditate on the budda to find peace so the pain will be minimized during the extraction. I really appreciated his attempt to calm me down by saying the proverbs at me. After giving him some time to preach to show my resepct for his belief, I told him that I am a Christian in a polite way. Then he said I should pray to Jesus during the extraction instead. So I prayed hard in my mind, and it really deviated the physical pain and nervousnes during the extraction. After everything was done, I checked out the reception area of his clinic and found many buddism-related magazines lying around. So, I think it's really neat that this dentist bring faith and spirituality to his practice even though I don't particular accept his belief.

About few months ago, a Christian dentist came to our pre-dental club and shared his mission trips to developing countries. He encouraged the students to pursue dentistry as more than a money making career and offered us the opportunity to go on mission trips with him. Some students were inspired by his presentation, but some found that he should just stick to dentistry side of things.I am actually planning to visit his practice sometime next week to see how he runs his practice and discuss about mission trips which is something that I long for as a dentist in the future.

So, I would like to hear you guy's opinions on this subject. Would you guys share your faith/belief to your patients whenever there's an opportunity to do so in an non-offensive and respect way?

For those of you who don't practice an particular religion, would you share your particular view points (i.e politics) or offer some advices/comforts to overcomes struggles that your patients may have in life?

Or do you think dentist's conversations with the patients should just revolve around oral health since it's the main reason that they come and pay you for it?

Do see dentistry as a career that provide more than just providing good life style/autonomy/job security/money? Do you feel that you would make impact in your patient's life?

any other comments are welcomed! 👍

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[Dr.BadVibes]

finally!!! although Im an atheist, this is a nice and interesting thread smooth.....its about time!!! I'd be interested in hearing responses from people!

Also, I know you are a member of DentalTown.....they have a forum dedicated to spirtual dentistry....have you checked it out?

 

[billiken10]

I think that there are a lot of ways that a person's faith ties into their work, and with dentistry that is seen often enough in mission trips or volunteering treatment, etc. I even thought about traveling to South America this summer to volunteer at a hospital with a church in my area. There are dentists who travel the world volunteering their skills through religious vocational groups, etc. All of that is awesome and very, very cool.

HOWEVER, I personally don't feel that a practicioner should force upon a patient any of their own political or religious beliefs, preachings, etc. A patient comes to you for your skills as a dentist and for treatment alone (unless it is made known prior to an appt. that your practice emphasizes a particular theory, faith, etc, etc. whatever).

I had an experience a couple of weeks ago getting my hair cut by a woman who was a Jehovah's witness. I have nothing wrong with that faith or its practices but she proceeded to debate (or rather preach) to me the tenants of her faith for almost 40 min. (BTW it takes 15 min to buzz my freakin head) As much as I am interested in religion and debating it, I kept thinking that I just wanted her to focus on what she was doing and keep our meeting on a more professional basis.

That's just my initial impression. Maybe I will find in practice that there is room for some more flexibility with a patient. As much as I feel dentistry is a vocation and that it ties very much into my faith life, until that familiarity is there, I think professionalism should be a first priority. My $0.02. Hope I don't tick anyone off!

b10

 

[babobabo]

“Preach the Gospel at all times. If necessary, use words.” -- Francis of Assisi

As a Christian myself, I believe faith can play an enormous role for dentists and the profession of dentistry, especially in serving the underserved lacking even the most basic of oral healthcare needs.

But perhaps actions speak louder than words, as cliched as it may sound, in dentistry, as it does in all professions. That Francis of Assisi may have had a point...

After reading a thread on "faith and medicine" in the allopathic fourm, it triggers my experience with a religious dentist last year when he took out my wisdom teeth. Before the actual procedure began, he preached bunch of buddist proverbs at me and asked me to meditate on the budda to find peace so the pain will be minimized during the extraction. I really appreciated his attempt to calm me down by saying the proverbs at me. After giving him some time to preach to show my resepct for his belief, I told him that I am a Christian in a polite way. Then he said I should pray to Jesus during the extraction instead. So I prayed hard in my mind, and it really deviated the physical pain and nervousnes during the extraction. After everything was done, I checked out the reception area of his clinic and found many buddism-related magazines lying around. So, I think it's really neat that this dentist bring faith and spirituality to his practice even though I don't particular accept his belief.

About few months ago, a Christian dentist came to our pre-dental club and shared his mission trips to developing countries. He encouraged the students to pursue dentistry as more than a money making career and offered us the opportunity to go on mission trips with him. Some students were inspired by his presentation, but some found that he should just stick to dentistry side of things.I am actually planning to visit his practice sometime next week to see how he runs his practice and discuss about mission trips which is something that I long for as a dentist in the future.

So, I would like to hear you guy's opinions on this subject. Would you guys share your faith/belief to your patients whenever there's an opportunity to do so in an non-offensive and respect way?

For those of you who don't practice an particular religion, would you share your particular view points (i.e politics) or offer some advices/comforts to overcomes struggles that your patients may have in life?

Or do you think dentist's conversations with the patients should just revolve around oral health since it's the main reason that they come and pay you for it?

Do see dentistry as a career that provide more than just providing good life style/autonomy/job security/money? Do you feel that you would make impact in your patient's life?

any other comments are welcomed! 👍

 

[adamlc18]

One thing that always surprises me is that it seems like most pre-dents/dents/dentists that want to help others out always seem to want to go to another country where they can help those with poor access to care. While I think that it is a great thing to do, I think we often forget that there are many people in the communities where we live who have poor access to care who would also benefit from our charity. I think in our attempts to be charitable, we shouldn't forget about those close to home.

 

[billiken10]

One thing that always surprises me is that it seems like most pre-dents/dents/dentists that want to help others out always seem to want to go to another country where they can help those with poor access to care. While I think that it is a great thing to do, I think we often forget that there are many people in the communities where we live who have poor access to care who would also benefit from our charity. I think in our attempts to be charitable, we shouldn't forget about those close to home.

Thats an excellent point. Especially considering what we now know about the systemic benefits and importance of good oral hygiene. How many people right here in the US face infection, heart disease, etc because of poor oral health? Dentistry really is a great way to impact a person's life.

PS- I just took my last final. I never have to take an undergrad class again. Wait... wasn't I just in high school???

 

[DDS2BE]

Before the actual procedure began, he preached bunch of buddist proverbs at me and asked me to meditate on the budda to find peace so the pain will be minimized during the extraction. I really appreciated his attempt to calm me down by saying the proverbs at me. After giving him some time to preach to show my resepct for his belief, I told him that I am a Christian in a polite way.

You didn’t get him offended in any way by stating you were a Christian… as Buddhism is not considered as a religion by Buddhists and they truly accept other religions unlike any other religion. I’ve seen Christian priests and Jewish Rabbi practicing Buddhism in the same Buddhist temple. Being a Jewish myself, I don’t see how Buddhism contradicts other religions in any way.

Anyhow, I don’t mean to steer this thread away from its original topic. I still think practicing Buddhism or any other religion with a patient sitting in the dental chair is unethical as it may put a pt in an uncomfortable position and even take its treatment course to a totally different route.

 

[jk5177]

One thing that always surprises me is that it seems like most pre-dents/dents/dentists that want to help others out always seem to want to go to another country where they can help those with poor access to care. While I think that it is a great thing to do, I think we often forget that there are many people in the communities where we live who have poor access to care who would also benefit from our charity. I think in our attempts to be charitable, we shouldn't forget about those close to home.

I think people who travel's outside to help other coutnryies also have the extra perk of visting a new country themselves. It's like a travel experience/vacation type of thing.

 

[jk5177]

To OP:

That was really interest. Is there a way I can contact the dentist you mentioned that chant Buddhist verses. I love to find out what he actually chants.

 

[45540]

I think that it is great to go on mission trips to minister while practicing dentistry, but in a prive practice setting I wouldn't be so open about it. I would have spiritual quotes framed or inspirational sayings that they could notice and ask about, but I'm not going to suggest that they do something that i feel is acceptable without knowing anything about them.

 

[Zurik5]

PS- I just took my last final. I never have to take an undergrad class again. Wait... wasn't I just in high school???

Congrats man. I've got one final left. These past two weeks have been hellish...which i think is an appropriate term to use on this thread 🙄

 

[Rezdawg]

I would never bring up religion in my practice. Its uncalled for, in my opinion. Patients dont come in there for me to talk to them about Jesus or Allah. Its not my place to enforce my thoughts/opinions about religion. If I want to talk to a patient about religion, I can do that over a cup of coffee at the local starbucks. As long as we are in my office, the focus will be on the oral health of the patient at hand.

 

[Bullfan16]

Hey Zurik--last day of finals huh??? I have heard all about it...9 finals and 4 performance exams in 2 weeks, damn! I am sure you all did well. Anyway, can you help me discourage 3 people who put down their deposit...I was thinking of going door to door and trying to convince them how horrible the first year is because you have to take boards in summer before 2nd year. Any thoughts?

 

[Bullfan16]

I would never bring up religion in my practice. Its uncalled for, in my opinion. Patients dont come in there for me to talk to them about Jesus or Allah. Its not my place to enforce my thoughts/opinions about religion. If I want to talk to a patient about religion, I can do that over a cup of coffee at the local starbucks. As long as we are in my office, the focus will be on the oral health of the patient at hand.

Agreed--100%

Leave the religion talk out of the office and professional world. Spirituality is for your own personal time

 

[Gulch]

Agreed--100%

Leave the religion talk out of the office and professional world. Spirituality is for your own personal time

I agree and disagree.

Here's where I agree:

Some topics are innapropriate for a professional setting and although faith may be an intrinsic part of who we are personally, it is important to differentiate between our private and public lives in order to be considerate to the beliefs of others. Two infamously explosive topics typically avoided in public/ conversational banter: religion and politics.

Here's where I disagree:

If a patient initiates a conversation regarding my religious beliefs in a non-confrontational way I won't dodge the topic. But I feel that it is important to not dwell on differences of particular doctrines that might escalate into a debate. Be genuine, but focus on the common ground that is relevant, like meditation that helps ease pain or how faith helps to cultivate moral values. Steer clear of potentially explosive topics like faith vs. works, sola scritura, by grace alone are we saved, condemning people to hell, etc. That's probably not appropriate. Save the salvation/damnation sermon for the coffee shop! 😉 Showing your faith by your actions will be the greatest sermon you ever deliver. "By their fruits shall ye know them..."

 

[Rezdawg]

Here's where I disagree:

If a patient initiates a conversation regarding my religious beliefs in a non-confrontational way I won't dodge the topic.

I agree with this. The reason why I said what I said is because I was under the impression that the dentist is the initiator. If the patient does bring it up, I wouldnt mind talking about the issue. And you are right, the focus should be on the common that is relevant.

 

[Zurik5]

Hey Zurik--last day of finals huh??? I have heard all about it...9 finals and 4 performance exams in 2 weeks, damn! I am sure you all did well. Anyway, can you help me discourage 3 people who put down their deposit...I was thinking of going door to door and trying to convince them how horrible the first year is because you have to take boards in summer before 2nd year. Any thoughts?

3 people, heh? Hopefully you'll get in... We need less tools and more descent, conversational people around. Irregardless, I say show up the first day and see if anyone notices. If they try to kick you out bring up the fact that the school is in debt $3 mill and needs your money. Maybe you could have everyone on this thread say a silent prayer for you 😉 Let me know if I can do anything later on this summer. 3 people, damn....you better get in.

 

[Smooth Operater]

One thing that always surprises me is that it seems like most pre-dents/dents/dentists that want to help others out always seem to want to go to another country where they can help those with poor access to care. While I think that it is a great thing to do, I think we often forget that there are many people in the communities where we live who have poor access to care who would also benefit from our charity. I think in our attempts to be charitable, we shouldn't forget about those close to home.

That's a good point. Our pre-dent society also invited a Christian pedeo dentist who is currently building a free clinic for people in the ghetto part of Vancouver. But he also takes some time off going into jungles in South America to help those who "never" have access to oral care. I think many Christian physicians/dentists perfer going to other countries over staying home is that many people in certain regions have never heard the gospel before, wherease most ppl in North America heard of Jesus. Whether you like it or not, it's one of agenda that Christian physicians/dentists have in their mind when they serve in another country.

 

[Smooth Operater]

To OP:

That was really interest. Is there a way I can contact the dentist you mentioned that chant Buddhist verses. I love to find out what he actually chants.

Well, he practices in Vancouver, BC Canada and he is a Taiwanese. He chanted the Buddhist verses in Chinese. To be honest with you, I didn't even understand half of what he was saying since it sounded too philosophical for someone with grade 4 level of chinese education. But I think he is good, he was able to convert my dad's friend to become vegertarian.

I also understand Buddism has no problem with Christianity or other religions. Many of my relatives are practicing buddist.

 

[Dr.Millisevert]

You didn’t get him offended in any way by stating you were a Christian… as Buddhism is not considered as a religion by Buddhists and they truly accept other religions unlike any other religion. I’ve seen Christian priests and Jewish Rabbi practicing Buddhism in the same Buddhist temple. Being a Jewish myself, I don’t see how Buddhism contradicts other religions in any way.

Anyhow, I don’t mean to steer this thread away from its original topic. I still think practicing Buddhism or any other religion with a patient sitting in the dental chair is unethical as it may put a pt in an uncomfortable position and even take its treatment course to a totally different route.

in the first paragraph you state it is not a religion, in the second one you infer it is a religion? 😕


Buddhism was founded in India, 528 BC, by Siddhartha Gautama known as "Buddha" (the enlightened one). His devotees also call him "Bhagara" (Lord), and "Tathagata" (True-Winner).

Buddhism developed initially in India as a reaction against Hinduism in the fifth century BC. It drew many of its beliefs from that religious context. Two key Hindu concepts that Buddhism uses are samsara and karma.
Samsara: The continual cycle of death and rebirth. This death and rebirth is of course into this world of suffering, and this is viewed in a negative manner.
Karma/Kamma: For Buddhism, as in Hinduism, this is the moral law of cause and effect. People build up karma (both good and bad) as a result of their actions. This then determines the state of existence to which one is reborn after birth. In Buddhism, the different levels can include humans or animals in this world.
Like Hinduism, Buddhism holds that life is a series of rebirths and "redeaths" in a continuous cycle of reincarnations and that a person's actions during a life produce karma that determines the place and form of the next life (and sometimes even succeeding lives). In Buddhism, samsara is often symbolized by the Wheel of Life:


Gautma Buddah sought to reform hinduism, for one because he disliked the idolatry and multiple Gods... but what is interesting and ironic is that Buddist have since made Gautma Buddah into a gold idol himself!

 

[Dr.Millisevert]

Australia
http://www.cmdfa.org.au/

UK
http://www.cdfuk.org/

USA
http://www.cmdahome.org/

Canada
http://www.cmds-emas.ca/page18.lasso

International
http://www.icmda.net/



BTW: This year the International CMDA meeting is in Sydney.
http://www.tourhosts.com.au/icmda2006/

 

[Dr.Millisevert]

I agree with this. The reason why I said what I said is because I was under the impression that the dentist is the initiator. If the patient does bring it up, I wouldnt mind talking about the issue. And you are right, the focus should be on the common that is relevant.

👍

 

[jk5177]

If a patient initiates a conversation regarding my religious beliefs in a non-confrontational way I won't dodge the topic. But I feel that it is important to not dwell on differences of particular doctrines that might escalate into a debate. Be genuine, but focus on the common ground that is relevant, like meditation that helps ease pain or how faith helps to cultivate moral values. Steer clear of potentially explosive topics like faith vs. works, sola scritura, by grace alone are we saved, condemning people to hell, etc. That's probably not appropriate. Save the salvation/damnation sermon for the coffee shop! 😉 Showing your faith by your actions will be the greatest sermon you ever deliver. "By their fruits shall ye know them..."

Very nicely said. In the way I carry myself, I believe we are all seeking similarities between people. If we talk alike, look alike, or think alike; it tends to make us feel safe and comfortable. People like people who are similar to them. In the issue of religion, when patients come in, they want to feel comfortable and safe, and if they see similarities between themselves and the doctor, then they would feel safe, which leads to better treatment for the patient. So, the doctor has an inherent and ethical responsibility to create a atomsphere that is eventually for the good of the patient. This can stem from a variety of ways. And, I must say, that talking about spirituality appropriately could create that atomsphere. This is especially true if they start the topic. For example, if a Buddhist monk came in to my clinic, and if he starts the conversation, then I would follow up. If a satan worshipper enters, I would not preach my religion and how wrong they are, instead I would emphasize similarities, perhaps something like... "in my religion, we also have a certain trance state when we meditate and bow." If a elementary kid comes in for treatment, I wouldn't talk religion at all because most likely kids don't think at such high abstract levels. But if a college student comes in, and he seems to be depressed or pondering about life, then that is an open door for spiritual discussions.

Ultimately, whether if religion is discussed in a clinic needs to be determined on indidivdual basis: did the patient bring it up? What is the patient's religion? What are the commonalities? Why did the patient bring it up? How can what I say be useful to ease the patient's treatment?

When these questions are thought through, then it is green light for... let me tell you about Gwan Yin Bodhisattva.

 

[grant555]

finally!!! although Im an atheist, this is a nice and interesting thread smooth.....its about time!!! I'd be interested in hearing responses from people!

I agree that a post of this caricature is somewhat overdue.

I also agree with others who suggest that it could cause some conflict in the workplace.

One experience I had involved a picnic/supper/food drive where most of the coordinators were Christians. The problem resulted in the food selections, and the subsequent lack of enthusiasm of some coworkers. After some time of posturing, it was finally revealed that some of the coworkers were unable to eat certain foods (pork ribs) due to their religious beliefs.

Sadly, this salient fact wasn't revealed until after some of the Christian crowd had seemingly alienated those of other faiths; wherein lies the problem.

I am a Christian, but I don't wear my religion on my sleeve. However, most Christians are taught to evangelize (spread the word) and thus have the working assumption to introduce scripture whenever the opportunity presents itself.

In my humble opinion, my faith in GOD is a personal foundation from which my strength and understanding can grow, not a platform or launching pad to skywrite my beliefs. I enjoy a good sermon, especially a great one, just as any Christian, but realize that everyone doesn't have to believe what I believe in order for me to be their dentist.

Apparently, this is one advantage of Judaism. Eventhough they don't believe in Christ as the Savior, they do believe in GOD, but don't evangelize, and some people subsequently label the Jews as Christ killers. I don't agree with this notion, which is an altogether different issue.

Nevertheless, it does bring to light that Judaism is not nearly as flamboyant as some branches of Christianity. Rare are the occassions that a Rabbi appears on a television network spreading the Torah? It simply isn't done, nor is it expected. If you do know of such an event, let me know because I would love to see it.


On the other hand, America is a predominantly Christian country so there is a fair chance you are going to run into a Christian or two.

Common sense must take over in private practice so that no one goes overboard and loses all professionalism in order to become closer to GOD. I don't believe this is the Almighty's intent since we are supposed to prosper (and this does mean financially in some respects). In the end, using good judgement will help keep your faith and dental practice intact. Take care and GOD Bless.

 

[Biogirl361]

I think I'd agree with the people who said put a couple magazines in the waiting room or a spiritual quote on the wall, which opens the door for a patient to initiate a discussion if they are interested in more information. This seems to be a good balance between taking advantage of your position as an opportunity to reach people but also not making anyone uncomfortable if they'd prefer to keep the visit professional. then you can do the active talking to people outside of work if you want.

 

[shammah98]

Personally, I beleive that "faith" and spirituality is an integral part of human life, whether ppl accept it or not. in other words, we all worship something, and that thing(or philosophy or person) will eventually find it's way into all facets of our lives. it will influence our practices and choices whatever degree we value it. that being said, there are many ppl who value(worship) money; this is paramount to them. go to their practices, you can tell almost everything they do is driven by this. others consider technology most important, others consider making the pt happy most important(while some value their opinion the most, i think we all know a few like this 😉 )...now this is not to say that any of these things are bad, we should strive to provide excellent pt care and make a decent living, the point is, whats most important.
for someone whose faith is most impoortant to them, it only follows that THIS would be evident in their practice and choices. why do we have a problem with this? why do we have to hide it?? yeah we dont put signs in our receptions saying "I'm in it just for the money", and consequently we really shouldn't be "preaching" at our patients in every single moment, but i think there are appropriate and neccesary times for the evidence of one's faith in one's practice; whether it is a picture of a mission trip you went on (sparks conversation), scrubs that say "I love Jesus" 😉 , magazines or music...
remember how we are always reminded that there is a body connected to that mouth, and that should influence care? Well, remember there is a spirit connected to that body...you get the point 🙂

 

[Bullfan16]

Sorry---I disagree with what a lot of you have said. One of the posters mentioned spreading the word and he hit the nail on the head. Why do Christians have to do this? Cant people form opinions and thoughts on their own? I happen to be a non-Jesus lover, and I say to each his own. Everyone should be able to practice whatever religion they feel comfortable with. Personally, nothing drives me more crazy than a guy who sits outside of a lecture hall preaching about "sinners" or one of those Campus Crusades for Christ people coming up to you and trying to get you to study the bible. Religion should be talked about and shared in a religious setting....not a professional one....or in the form of a door-to-door salesperson. Whether that religious setting be among your peers, family, or other people you share a common religion with, etc. Religion is just such a touchy subject and everyone has different views on it. Some dont even believe there is a g-d, believe it or not. Anyway, thats just my take. If you want to love Jesus, by all means do so, but remember he was one of my people (and a rabbi at that)....and I dont have to agree with your beliefs. (On a related note this is just my opinion, if you want to have religious magazines in your office thats cool I just know I wont do the same).

 

[saahakhan]

i also agree to Gulch.
According to my opinion doctors are basically health promotors in general public, and HEALTH is defined as; " Physical, Mental, Social and Spiritual well-being of a person"
i think these last two parts are totally ignored by all doctors.

I agree and disagree.

Here's where I agree:

Some topics are innapropriate for a professional setting and although faith may be an intrinsic part of who we are personally, it is important to differentiate between our private and public lives in order to be considerate to the beliefs of others. Two infamously explosive topics typically avoided in public/ conversational banter: religion and politics.

Here's where I disagree:

If a patient initiates a conversation regarding my religious beliefs in a non-confrontational way I won't dodge the topic. But I feel that it is important to not dwell on differences of particular doctrines that might escalate into a debate. Be genuine, but focus on the common ground that is relevant, like meditation that helps ease pain or how faith helps to cultivate moral values. Steer clear of potentially explosive topics like faith vs. works, sola scritura, by grace alone are we saved, condemning people to hell, etc. That's probably not appropriate. Save the salvation/damnation sermon for the coffee shop! 😉 Showing your faith by your actions will be the greatest sermon you ever deliver. "By their fruits shall ye know them..."

 

[babobabo]

We need to make a big distinction between sharing the Christian gospel boldly to random strangers on the street (which, commonly done on college campuses, can be awkward and ineffective, even if done in a friendly way) and being able to open up to friends that you can trust.

As a Christian, it's not easy for me (nor is it effective, most of the time) to just randomly go up to someone on the street and talk about Jesus. It'll most likely turn off the person, 99% of the time. It really is shoving the gospel down people's throats, and it really isn't... wise, 99% of the time, in my opinion. (I have done this though... and it's a crazy learning experience)

But as a dentist, you gradually build relationships with your patients. Not all, but some, at the very least. And that opens up a channel. A Christian dentist may chat about family, hobbies, current events, and... even his own faith with patients, albeit in a friendly and open manner -- AFTER he has built a certain level of trust, camaraderie, and understanding with the patient.

If I ask a patient, "hey, have you tried that steakhouse?" out of a genuine desire for him to try an awesome restaurant, it's no different if I ask him, "hey, have you checked out 'mere christianity' by c.s. lewis?" out of a genuine desire for him to read an awesome book.

Like I posted before... "Preach the Gospel at all times. If necessary, use words" -- Francis of Assisi... and make sure to 'preach' it in a cool, genuine, and polite manner...

Sorry---I disagree with what a lot of you have said. One of the posters mentioned spreading the word and he hit the nail on the head. Why do Christians have to do this? Cant people form opinions and thoughts on their own? I happen to be a non-Jesus lover, and I say to each his own. Everyone should be able to practice whatever religion they feel comfortable with. Personally, nothing drives me more crazy than a guy who sits outside of a lecture hall preaching about "sinners" or one of those Campus Crusades for Christ people coming up to you and trying to get you to study the bible. Religion should be talked about and shared in a religious setting....not a professional one....or in the form of a door-to-door salesperson. Whether that religious setting be among your peers, family, or other people you share a common religion with, etc. Religion is just such a touchy subject and everyone has different views on it. Some dont even believe there is a g-d, believe it or not. Anyway, thats just my take. If you want to love Jesus, by all means do so, but remember he was one of my people (and a rabbi at that)....and I dont have to agree with your beliefs. (On a related note this is just my opinion, if you want to have religious magazines in your office thats cool I just know I wont do the same).

 

[DrJeff]

Two infamously explosive topics typically avoided in public/ conversational banter: religion and politics.

If a patient starts talking religion while in my chair, I start talking politics.

If a patient starts talking politics in my chair, I start talking sports.

If I patient starts talking sports in my chair, not alot of work will get done in that operatory 😀

Especially amongst some people talking about your religous beliefs can cause many potential, especially if you don't know their religous affiliation. Keeping the talk to dental related issues and/or generic topics such as the weather, etc can keep your day moving along and your patients happy/returning/ referring new patients

 

[aasst15]

my taiwanese dentist probably get half his business from our chinese church.

Well, he practices in Vancouver, BC Canada and he is a Taiwanese. He chanted the Buddhist verses in Chinese. To be honest with you, I didn't even understand half of what he was saying since it sounded too philosophical for someone with grade 4 level of chinese education. But I think he is good, he was able to convert my dad's friend to become vegertarian.

I also understand Buddism has no problem with Christianity or other religions. Many of my relatives are practicing buddist.

 

[doctordental]

How the hell are you going to have a conversation with your patient when you're doing work on his mouth???????????????????????????



I HATE WHEN MY DENTIST ASKS ME QUESTIONS THAT I CAN BARLEY ANSWER BECAUSE HE'S GIVING ME A FREAKEN ROOT CANAL.....AGAIN!!! DAMN ROOTS.

I think dentistry is GREAT becuase it is one of the few professions where the patient has to listen to you and where he cannot reply back. my dentist/uncle, always lectured me on not doing bad stuff while working on my teeth ,and all i could think about was damn i hope he doesn't freeze my teeth with that damn cold water... oh another thing, why dont dentist use warm water????? arghhh!!

 

[ISU_Steve]

I think you should keep your faith to yourself, especially around patients. I'm a practicing Episcopalian (all the salvation of Catholicism, but only half the guilt) but I don't make it a driving force of my life. If you want to use a religious charity to fund a medical mission to an underpriveliged nation, then by all means go for it. But I do take issue with being required to attempt to convert people while doing there, as I was told I would be required to do if I went with a group to Central America to do medical support work. If they want someone to prostelytize then they need to send along priests or laypersons who are into doing that kind of thing, but they had also better keep it out of my clinic. Religion, politics, ethnic differences, etc. they all get checked at the door when it comes to medical and dental care.

My faith doesn't affect the way I practice now and it won't once I become a dentist and that is something I am very proud of. If you want to spread the word of the Lord while earning a paycheck then perhaps you're going into the wrong profession.

 

[Darksunshine]

I think you should keep your faith to yourself, especially around patients. I'm a practicing Episcopalian (all the salvation of Catholicism, but only half the guilt) but I don't make it a driving force of my life. If you want to use a religious charity to fund a medical mission to an underpriveliged nation, then by all means go for it. But I do take issue with being required to attempt to convert people while doing there, as I was told I would be required to do if I went with a group to Central America to do medical support work. If they want someone to prostelytize then they need to send along priests or laypersons who are into doing that kind of thing, but they had also better keep it out of my clinic. Religion, politics, ethnic differences, etc. they all get checked at the door when it comes to medical and dental care.

My faith doesn't affect the way I practice now and it won't once I become a dentist and that is something I am very proud of. If you want to spread the word of the Lord while earning a paycheck then perhaps you're going into the wrong profession.

Excellent point! 👍

 

[Bcat]

Would you guys share your faith/belief to your patients whenever there's an opportunity to do so in an non-offensive and respect way?

Yes... and then I'd bill an extra 500$ for the sermon!

 

[dpg]

After reading a thread on "faith and medicine" in the allopathic fourm, it triggers my experience with a religious dentist last year when he took out my wisdom teeth. Before the actual procedure began, he preached bunch of buddist proverbs at me and asked me to meditate on the budda to find peace so the pain will be minimized during the extraction. I really appreciated his attempt to calm me down by saying the proverbs at me. After giving him some time to preach to show my resepct for his belief, I told him that I am a Christian in a polite way. Then he said I should pray to Jesus during the extraction instead. So I prayed hard in my mind, and it really deviated the physical pain and nervousnes during the extraction. After everything was done, I checked out the reception area of his clinic and found many buddism-related magazines lying around. So, I think it's really neat that this dentist bring faith and spirituality to his practice even though I don't particular accept his belief.

About few months ago, a Christian dentist came to our pre-dental club and shared his mission trips to developing countries. He encouraged the students to pursue dentistry as more than a money making career and offered us the opportunity to go on mission trips with him. Some students were inspired by his presentation, but some found that he should just stick to dentistry side of things.I am actually planning to visit his practice sometime next week to see how he runs his practice and discuss about mission trips which is something that I long for as a dentist in the future.

So, I would like to hear you guy's opinions on this subject. Would you guys share your faith/belief to your patients whenever there's an opportunity to do so in an non-offensive and respect way?

For those of you who don't practice an particular religion, would you share your particular view points (i.e politics) or offer some advices/comforts to overcomes struggles that your patients may have in life?

Or do you think dentist's conversations with the patients should just revolve around oral health since it's the main reason that they come and pay you for it?

Do see dentistry as a career that provide more than just providing good life style/autonomy/job security/money? Do you feel that you would make impact in your patient's life?

any other comments are welcomed! 👍

I think any subject as controversial as religious leanings or spirituality for that matter should at all times remain on the attraction rather than promotion line of thinking. If you got something going on your life that naturally draws out the question of How you do it then by all means but if it is even slightly forced you you will make that patient fell like a victim of a religious stick-up. No choice to be there once they are there in your chair and your armed with a HS piece. They came for the maitenance of their oral condition and not their spiritual. However, God puts people in peoples lives for a reason. What that reason is, only God knows? Sometimes its completely opposite of the reason we think. I'll shut up, Lord knows I ain't no preacher. The very fact that you ask peoples oppinions on this shows that you probably have pretty good intuition. You know what I mean?

much love,
prayers and blessings on you and yours

 

[ISU_Steve]

I was walking across town today and noticed on one of the newer buildings the inscription, "To him whom much is given, of him much will be required." It made me think of this thread.

It's a modification of a passage from Luke 12:48: "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."

That sums up how I feel about my role as a health care provider- be it as a dentist, an EMT, an RT, or whatever role I happen to fill: I've been given a lot, in regards to my training and education, the opportunities I've had, and the rewards (both monetary and otherwise) that I have received for my work, and the trust that has been placed in me because of the nature of the work I do. Thus I know that I must be expected to give back more than what I take- this is why I plan on doing pro bono work as a dentist, and why I volunteer as a firefighter/EMT, etc.

Yes, plenty of people screw up and or misinterpret Christianity, and every other faith for that matter, but we must remember that while we shouldn't be expected to cram our faith down the throats of others, we can use our faith to make their lives better.

Oh and just in case you all were wondering, I had originally planned (back in high school) on becoming a minister.

 

[Darksunshine]

Faith/belief systems are like extensions of our perceptions. They are wide and varied. I think that people will practice dentistry and say to their patients what they feel they need to hear but I agree with the sentiment that "cramming" and "preaching" anything won't be heard even if it is "FLOSS your **** teeth" unless the person is open to the idea in the first place.

As healthcare providers we need to speak to our patients from a place they can listen from, and not try to "convert" them to our own personal (religious/political) belief system. Tolerance of others views and beliefs is hard to do but necessary if we want to keep our own freedoms protected. (Keep in mind I am not saying that hurting others is ok, I am strictly speaking about faith or lack there of.)

 

[Smooth Operater]

Ow! These are great opinions. I was shadowing a Christian dentist 2 weeks ago and he asked me to talk about the gospel to a patient who was waiting in the lounge. Thank God that she seems really interested and would like to learn about my faith. I guess maybe she is still young that she doesn't have a solid belief. As for me, if dentistry somehow doesn't work out ( God forbids it), I will seek to become a full time missionary and live poorly 🙂

 

[ISU_Steve]

You might live poorly (from a money standpoint) but it sounds like you would be happier doing missionary work- Christianity seems to be a major part of your life and you seem intent on selling it (nothing wrong with that), but you do need to bear in mind that a good portion of our generation has major issues with organized religion. One tends to fall either on one end of the spectrum or the other- they are either devoutly religious (such as yourself) or they are decidely atheistic. Very few of us fall into that gray nether region in between.

The reason you should keep this in mind is that while you may view religious faith as a necessary and delightful part of your life, there are those of us who view it in the exact opposite light. Push the religion a bit too hard and you could ruin your prospects as a dentist especially in a smaller community. One happy client tells ten people, while a dissatisfied or, even worse, down right pissed client will tell at least twice that many if not more. There's one dentist here locally who is hurting for patients because of his proselytizing (basically he shot his mouth off about religion to the wrong person and it's costing him dearly which is sad because he's a very good dentist.). I'm just warning you that you need to tread lightly when it comes to this kind of thing. 🙂

Think long and hard about what you want to do before deciding to become a missionary in dental disguise. But either way, good luck in whatever you decide to do.

 

[ackbar]

I hate Christians, Jews, and Muslims.

If I had Emperor dictator-ship powers I would kill every single one of them. They're scum and useless members of the human race.

I would also firebomb every single church, mosque, and synagogue in the world. ESP. those damn mega-born-again-revivalist-evangelical churches in the "I" and "K" states.

/rant off.

Sorry if it seems harsh, I have never run across any person of faith worth his weight in manure... the runny kind....

 

[ISU_Steve]

While I too have a disliking for the "born again" fundamentalist Christians ("Welcome to the First Church of the Holy Bonanza Cashflow"), you could have expressed your opinion with a little less venom and hatred. Not all people of faith are worthless (a lot are...) but not all.

 

[cameltoe]

I hate Christians, Jews, and Muslims.

If I had Emperor dictator-ship powers I would kill every single one of them. They're scum and useless members of the human race.

I would also firebomb every single church, mosque, and synagogue in the world. ESP. those damn mega-born-again-revivalist-evangelical churches in the "I" and "K" states.

/rant off.

Sorry if it seems harsh, I have never run across any person of faith worth his weight in manure... the runny kind....

why so much hate?

 

[ackbar]

While I too have a disliking for the "born again" fundamentalist Christians ("Welcome to the First Church of the Holy Bonanza Cashflow"), you could have expressed your opinion with a little less venom and hatred. Not all people of faith are worthless (a lot are...) but not all.

I know, but sadly I just haven't met any, so from my life experiences... religion just hasn't been worth it.... it's been a net negative-ism in the annals of human history. I will be so happy when someon can reclaim with accuracy "God is dead", but I sadly, will not live to see such a day.

Oh to the OP, if my dentist ever tried to proselytize to me, I will take his hi-power drill and cut off his fingers... since you were the one who was so idiotically concerned with "losing your hands", keep that in mind before you go bible-thumping to your patients...

the amount of hatred that is provoked within me when I run into proselytizers scares even myself sometimes

 

[ISU_Steve]

You don't need hate. Just water balloons filled with maple syrup and you'll never see another Jehovah's witness on your doorstep so long as you live.

 

[Gulch]

I hate Christians, Jews, and Muslims.

If I had Emperor dictator-ship powers I would kill every single one of them. They're scum and useless members of the human race.

I would also firebomb every single church, mosque, and synagogue in the world. ESP. those damn mega-born-again-revivalist-evangelical churches in the "I" and "K" states.

/rant off.

Sorry if it seems harsh, I have never run across any person of faith worth his weight in manure... the runny kind....

Wow, ackbar. Do you realize the powder keg you just lit? I am disgusted by your post. Your intolerance, hatred and lack of self control are socially and psychologically unhealthy. If you let your hate continue to ruminate and fester in the fungal recesses of your existential vacuum it will canker your life with negativity. No one likes a small minded, self righteous, bible thumping minister who is out for profit, but the proselytizing of some obnoxious born agains will NEVER justify your murderous desires. You don't have to believe in God to have compassion for other individuals or find value in human life.

Can't you differentiate between your disdain for organized religion and the individuals who adhere to the various tenets of Judaism, Christianity and Islam? Shame on you for wishing to kill all of the believers. If with ultimate power you would "kill every single one of them" and "firebomb every single church, mosque, and synagogue in the world. ESP. those damn mega-born-again-revivalist-evangelical churches in the "I" and "K" states", I hope you remain powerless for the rest of your life. Where is your humanity? I'm sure even Nietsche would take issue with your childish rant. Get a grip.

 

[ackbar]

Wow, ackbar. Do you realize the powder keg you just lit? I am disgusted by your post. Your intolerance, hatred and lack of self control are socially and psychologically unhealthy. If you let your hate continue to ruminate and fester in the fungal recesses of your existential vacuum it will canker your life with negativity. No one likes a small minded, self righteous, bible thumping minister who is out for profit, but the proselytizing of some obnoxious born agains will NEVER justify your murderous desires. You don't have to believe in God to have compassion for other individuals or find value in human life.

Can't you differentiate between your disdain for organized religion and the individuals who adhere to the various tenets of Judaism, Christianity and Islam? Shame on you for wishing to kill all of the believers. If with ultimate power you would "kill every single one of them" and "firebomb every single church, mosque, and synagogue in the world. ESP. those damn mega-born-again-revivalist-evangelical churches in the "I" and "K" states", I hope you remain powerless for the rest of your life. Where is your humanity? I'm sure even Nietsche would take issue with your childish rant. Get a grip.

I am free to hate and daydream about killing whoever I want. Yes I sometimes scare myself at how vehemence completely overtakes me when I encounter the tenements of religion. Sometimes I black out and when I come to I do bad things. But then after a while I'm glad that I did those bad things because it meant bad things happened to religious people.

 

[ISU_Steve]

What's that saying: "Just because the courts say I have a right to, doesn't mean that I should, or that I have a divine mandate to."