Why should the dentist dress professionally for consultations and skip the scrubs?
Because the visual presentation shapes the patient’s impression of authority and competence within the first few seconds of meeting the doctor. Scrubs read as clinical work clothing. They signal procedure mode, not consultation mode. The patient sitting across from a doctor in scrubs registers the doctor as the clinician about to perform the work, which is the wrong frame for the consultation conversation. Professional dress, a tailored shirt or blouse, often a jacket, dress shoes, signals advisor and expert. The patient registers the doctor in the role of trusted professional consulting on a major decision. The shift in framing is small visually and large psychologically. Other professionals make the same adjustment. A lawyer does not consult with a client in courtroom robes. A surgeon does not meet a patient in operating room attire. Dress for the role being played in the room. For consultations involving major treatment, this means no scrubs.
If the answers you are finding here resonate with you, my team and I work with a small group of clients each year. The next step is a complimentary Discovery Consultation and Practice Review with Dr. McAnally.