At Dentique Dentistry, our guiding principle is simple: every recommendation we make should pass what is known as the Daughter Test. It’s a philosophy embraced by many dental professionals worldwide, and one we feel is essential in providing care that is both ethical and genuinely in the best interest of our patients.
What Is the Daughter Test?
The Daughter Test is not a clinical tool, but a moral compass. Put simply, it means that when a dentist is deciding which treatment to recommend, they should always ask themselves:
“If this patient were my daughter, what advice would I give her?”
By imagining a loved one in the patient’s place, dentists are reminded to put empathy, trust, and honesty at the centre of every decision. It takes the focus away from costs or convenience, and ensures that recommendations are rooted in genuine care.
Why Does It Matter for Patients?
As a patient, hearing about treatment options can sometimes feel overwhelming. Dentistry often involves more than one possible solution, and each may vary in cost, complexity, or long-term outcome. The Daughter Test reassures patients that their dentist is not just listing options, but carefully considering what they would recommend if the patient were a member of their own family.
This means:
- Clear, honest advice about what is necessary versus optional.
- Respect for your budget and circumstances, without compromising your wellbeing.
- Confidence that your health comes first, not profit or convenience.
In short, the Daughter Test is about trust. It is the promise that you are receiving the same standard of care that your dentist would want for the people they love most.
How Dentists Use It in Practice
Dentists face complex decisions every day. From whether to recommend a filling or monitor a tooth, to advising on implants versus dentures, the options can vary widely. The Daughter Test offers a straightforward ethical benchmark.
For example:
- A borderline case: If a small cavity could be monitored or filled early, the dentist asks what they would do if it were their own child. The choice becomes clearer.
- A cosmetic request: If a patient wants a treatment that may not benefit their health, the dentist can balance honesty with empathy, guiding them towards what they would recommend for a family member.
- A complex treatment plan: When there are several routes to achieve the same outcome, the Daughter Test ensures the dentist advises on the path that balances effectiveness, comfort, and long-term wellbeing.
A Principle of Trust
At Dentique Dentistry, the Daughter Test is not just a phrase—it is part of our culture. It aligns with our values of treating every patient as an individual, listening with empathy, and building lasting relationships based on trust.
For patients, it is a reminder that you are never just a number. For dentists, it is a reminder that our role is not only to treat teeth, but to care for people.