The importance of the dentist-patient relationship for effective dental care: A narrative literature review

Abstract

The effectiveness of dental care transcends technical competence, being deeply rooted in the quality of the relationship established between the dentist and the patient. This article explores the critical importance of cultivating a genuine human connection in dental practice. It analyzes how trust influences treatment compliance and the patient’s perception of the professional’s competence and empathy. The role of effective communication, empathy, and humane treatment in reducing anxiety and promoting a positive experience is highlighted. Furthermore, the dentist’s role in patient education and prevention, as well as the significance of ethics and confidentiality in building a strong relationship, are addressed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for strengthening this essential bond are examined, concluding that the dentist-patient relationship is a fundamental pillar for providing comprehensive and high‑quality dental care. The aim of this article is to conduct a narrative literature review on the dentist-patient relationship and its connection with communication, empathy, patient education, and treatment outcomes.