Table 2.

Core principles of provision of professional information for patients

• Clear and easily understanding information

• Ensuring correct understanding

• True and fair discussion

• Encouraging patients to ask questions and answering these questions

• Non technical terms and everyday words

• Adequate time

• Specific and detailed information

• Non-patronizing behaviour

• Concern for patients limited technical understanding of oral health care

• Being caring and friendly

• Avoiding negative talks

• Specific emphasis on health education and prevention

• Responsibility of patients for long term success of care

• Respect for self determination right of patients and acting in an advisory capacity

• Concern of patient language barriers and ability to understand

• Not being over-positive with the treatment plans and increasing patients expectations unrealistically