In the last week or so I have fielded numerous questions regarding language to communicate with patients. How we help them develop ownership and understanding of the conditions in their mouth, and the possibilities for care is one of the most challenging pieces. We all struggle for just the "right" words. Over the years I have learned that if I simply share with patients what I am thinking, if I speak my truth, communication is always more effective. This means sharing what I am concerned about, curious about and questioning, as well as what I know. In this video I talk about how I help a patient understand why I think their tooth needs to have an indirect restoration versus a filling.