Let’s take some time to get to know Crows Nest Dentist’s newest dentist, Dr Patricia Wong. As well as being multilingual, speaking English, Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay, Dr Wong is an avid foodie and enjoys traveling. Join us as we dive into her personal and professional background.
Question 1 (Beyond Teeth): We all have passions outside of work. What are some of your hobbies or interests that bring you joy outside of dentistry?
Outside of dentistry, I derive great pleasure from going on gastronomical adventures as a dedicated food enthusiast. Additionally, I’m also an avid traveler, always seeking new experiences and cultures to immerse myself in. When I’m not indulging in food or travelling, I enjoy hiking and sweating it out at Pilates sessions to maintain a healthy balance in life.
Question 2 (Favorite Smile Story): Tell us about a particularly heartwarming transformation or positive outcome for a patient’s smile?
I’ll never forget one patient’s journey to a brighter smile. He came to me feeling insecure about his misaligned teeth, his smile hiding behind self-doubt. Through a journey of orthodontic clear aligner treatment and cosmetic dental procedures, the transformation was astounding. The moment he saw his new smile in the mirrors, his eyes lit up with joy and confidence. It was a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact I can achieve for my patients, not just on smiles, but on overall well-being too.
Question 3 (Dental Mythbuster): What’s the most common dental misconception you encounter, and how can you set the record straight?
One common misconception I frequently encounter is the belief that brushing harder equates to better cleaning. In reality, aggressive brushing can damage tooth enamel and irritate gums, leading to sensitivity and even gum recession. To correct this, I emphasize the importance of using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions while brushing. Additionally, educating patients about proper technique, duration (at least 2 minutes) and frequency (twice daily), along with incorporating daily flossing and regular dental check-ups, helps reinforce optimal oral hygiene practises.
Question 4 (Comfort First): What steps do you take to ensure anxious patients feel comfortable and at ease during their appointments?
To ensure anxious dental patients feel comfortable and at ease during their appointments, I prioritise building a supportive and compassionate environment. Firstly, I encourage open communication, inviting patients to share their concerns and fears openly. This allows me to address their specific worries and tailor the appointment to their needs.
Secondly, I employ a gentle approach throughout the procedure, explaining each step beforehand to alleviate anxiety and build trust. By using a gentle touch and demonstrating care and empathy, I aim to minimize discomfort and create a positive experience for the patient.
Thirdly, I offer relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, guided imagery, or listening to calming music. These techniques help patients relax both mentally and physically, easing tension and promoting a sense of calmness during the appointment.
Additionally, I provide opportunities for patients to take breaks if they feel overwhelmed or anxious during the procedure. This empowers them to feel in control of the situation and allows them to regain composure before continuing.
For patients with severe anxiety, I may offer sedation options such as nitrous oxide. This helps induce a state of relaxation and can significantly reduce anxiety levels, allowing patients to undergo treatment comfortably.
By implementing these strategies, I aim to create a supportive and empathetic atmosphere where anxious dental patients can feel reassured, valued, and well-cared for throughout their appointment.
Question 5 (Beyond Brushing): What’s one surprising piece of advice you offer patients to maintain optimal oral health that goes beyond basic brushing and flossing?
Another surprising piece of advice I offer patients is to use a tongue scraper as part of their oral hygiene routine. While brushing and flossing are essential, many people overlook the importance of cleaning their tongue. Using a tongue scraper helps remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells from the surface of the tongue, which can contribute to bad breath and oral health issues. By incorporating this simple tool into their daily routine, patients can improve overall oral hygiene and enjoy fresher breath.
Question 6 (Team Spirit): Can you describe the team at Crows Nest Dentists in three words? What makes the practice unique and collaborative?
Professional, Empathetic, Dynamic
What sets our dental practice apart is our emphasis on teamwork and synergy. We cultivate an environment where every team member’s strengths are recognized and utilized to their fullest potential. Through constant communication and collaboration, we ensure seamless coordination of care, resulting in a cohesive and efficient patient experience. Our commitment to working together as a cohesive unit enables us to deliver exceptional outcomes and exceed our patients’ expectations consistently.
Question 7 (Life-Long Learning): How do you stay updated on the latest advancements and trends in dentistry to ensure you offer the best possible care?
I am dedicated to ongoing professional development. Through continuous education, attending dental conferences and hands-on seminars, this ensures I can offer my patients the best possible care by incorporating innovative approaches into my practice. In fact, I am currently enrolled in a Post Graduate Diploma in Digital Orthodontics to further expand my knowledge in Clear Aligner orthodontic treatment.
Question 8 (Candid Question): If you could change one thing about the dental care experience, what would it be?
I would aim to eliminate the stigma and fear often associated with visiting the dentist. I envision a dental care experience where patients feels completely comfortable, supported and motivated to prioritise their oral health without anxiety or apprehension.
This could involve implementing more patient-centred approaches, such as enhancing communication, providing education and offering relaxation technique to alleviate fears and create a more positive and welcoming experience for everyone.