Effects of dentists' behavior on patients' attitudes.

A group of 16 patients received Class II restorations at two different sessions. During one session a dentist interacted positively with the patient. During another session, the dentist had little interaction with the patients. Patients' ratings indicated that both dentists were perceived as equally competent but that the dentist who interacted with the patients was rated significantly better. It is possible that dentists will gain more satisfaction from their patients as they increase their interaction.