Michael Sonick, DMD
Michael Sonick, DMD, is an internationally known, highly regarded authority in the field of dental implantology and periodontology. A full-time practicing periodontist in Fairfield, Connecticut, he is also a frequent guest lecturer in the international program at New York University School of Dentistry and the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He lectures worldwide on the subjects of esthetic implants, periodontal plastic surgery, guided bone regeneration, comprehensive treatment planning and the delivery of exceptional customer service.
He is the author of the book Treating People Not Patients and co-editor of the multi-language textbook, Implant Site Development. He serves on the editorial boards of numerous journals including the Compendium of Continuing Education, the Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry, Inside Dentistry, Dentistry Today and also writes and publishes numerous papers in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Sonick is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, a diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantology, a fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, a fellow of the International Team for Implantology, a fellow of the International Society of Periodontal Plastic Surgeons, and an Eagle Scout. His mission is to improve the quality of patients’ lives as well as the lives of everyone he meets.
Treating People, Not Patients
In ideal dental and medical care, the focus should be on treating the whole person, not just addressing individual issues. Unfortunately, this is not always the reality. Healthcare professionals, including both dentists and physicians, are often trained to perform specific procedures rather than providing comprehensive care. Dental education, in particular, tends to emphasize the mastery of isolated technical skills and procedures, often neglecting the broader concept of patient care (consider the rigorous requirements of dental school).
The result of this fragmented approach is a diminished ability to gain patient acceptance for treatment that truly serves both their needs and the healthcare provider’s goals. Our mission is to foster strong, trusting relationships built on transparency and shared decision-making between the patient, doctor, and staff.
Achieving treatment acceptance that aligns with the patient’s best interests requires an approach that goes beyond simply presenting a report of findings or listing procedures. In this presentation, Dr. Sonick will share the key communication strategies that have enabled him to build a successful practice, where more than 90% of patients agree to comprehensive dental treatments. His fee-for-service practice is regularly booked three months in advance. With decades of experience and ongoing study, Dr. Sonick will not only share fascinating clinical cases, but also guide you through the critical aspects of office design and team building that are essential to creating a patient-centered environment.
Learning Objectives
At the end of the session, participants will be able to:
- Establish rapport, trust, and engagement with patients.
- Master the art of communication through storytelling.
- Apply NLP (Neurolinguistic Programming) techniques to enhance communication, framing, and motivation triggers!
- Create a first-class, impeccable office environment!
- Build a servant-hearted team that delivers WOW experience.
- Achieve higher patient acceptance of comprehensive treatment.