Chocolates on the counter

Oct 12, 2009

Editor's note: Sheri Doniger's column, Dental Diaries, appears regularly on the DrBicuspid.com advice and opinion page, Second Opinion.

In my office, we have a beautiful glass candy dish on the reception desk, right next to the fresh flowers. It is always filled with chocolates.

Why chocolates? Why not?

“Having chocolates around a dental office has so many benefits.”

As our practice grew from a family practice to a more adult-driven practice, we moved from the stickers to more functional advertising giveaways, such as pens, toothpaste squeezers, and magnets. At some point, chocolate seemed to be a perfect addition to the front desk area.

And our patients truly appreciate the touch. My comment: It's a woman's office -- why not have chocolates? We love chocolates. It is one of the most common gifts we receive at holidays. We enjoy them, so why not our patients? The often-asked question is: Aren't they fattening? Our response: If you eat just one, no they are not.

Having chocolates around a dental office has so many benefits. Chocolate stimulates endorphin production, and who couldn't use a little endorphin after a dental appointment? Chocolate also contains serotonin, which is an antidepressant. How many patients skip out of your office? Although most are very excited to get out of the chair, they do not do a happy dance when they are leaving (especially when they have to pay for the services just rendered). Chocolates also contain theobromine and other stimulants, which can further improve the mood level of our departing patients. Chocolates (especially dark chocolates) are also heart-healthy due to their antioxidant nature and their ability to lower blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein (LDL).

So why the occasional reticence? Some patients ask, "How can you give us candy? Isn't it bad for your teeth?" And here, my friends, is a teachable moment: Chocolate, in moderation, is not bad for your teeth. It contains oleic acid and stearic acid. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fat that is found in olive oil, and stearic acid is a saturated fat that has been shown to have a neutral effect on cholesterol. Yes, chocolate does contain palmitic acid, which is a saturated fat that will increase cholesterol, but only one-third of chocolate is bad for you. The chocolate itself, which is mainly fat, does not stick to the teeth; it merely coats the teeth and the tongue when it melts, therefore making it an acceptable treat for the nondiabetic, nonobese adult patient.

Again, all in moderation. It is always interesting to see how many times a week we have to fill up the candy dish. We do have a lawyer down the hall who occasionally, sheepishly sneaks into the office for his chocolate treat. But for the most part, the chocolates are for our patients. Does the team partake? Honestly, no. We have had the chocolates out for such a long time that none of us seems to notice them anymore. But after one of those appointments from you-know-where, at least we know where a tiny endorphin rush is available.

So if you are thinking of adding a tea station in your reception area, consider a chocolate tasting station as well. Your patients will remember you, and you will be able to give them interesting health and nutrition tidbits while discussing acceptable treats to be consumed postdentistry.

For more information, click here for a great article on the health benefits of chocolate.

Sheri Doniger, D.D.S., practices clinical dentistry in Lincolnwood, IL. She has served as an educator in several dental and dental hygiene programs, has been a consultant for a major dental benefit company, and has written for several dental publications. Most recently, she was the editor of Woman Dentist Journal and Woman Dentist eJournal. You can reach her at [email protected].

The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization.