NASHVILLE, TN / ACCESS Newswire / December 30, 2025 / Dr. Jeff Mathews, DDS, is calling for the adoption of a clear, practical best-practice standard in dentistry focused on comprehensive diagnosis, documented treatment planning, and patient transparency. The proposed standard centers on slowing down the diagnostic process, using modern diagnostic tools consistently, and clearly explaining long-term implications before treatment begins.
The goal is simple. Improve trust. Improve outcomes. Reduce preventable harm.
Dr. Mathews' position is rooted in his training in full mouth rehabilitation, aesthetic dentistry, and his experience running a modern dental practice where long-term planning guides daily decisions.
As he has explained in prior discussions on success and practice building, "Dentistry rewards preparation. Small decisions affect outcomes years later." He has also emphasized that "a successful case is one that still functions well years later," not one that only looks good at delivery. In his practice, success is defined by consistency and durability, noting that "patients returning and cases holding up over time" are the real measures of quality. He has also been clear that "if something does not improve long-term oral health, it does not belong in the plan."
Why This Standard Matters
When comprehensive diagnosis and transparent planning are missing, patient harm increases. Industry research and insurance data highlight recurring issues:
Studies estimate that up to 30 percent of restorative dental work fails prematurely due to inadequate diagnosis or planning.
Re-treatment accounts for roughly 20 percent of total dental spending in the United States each year.
Poorly planned cosmetic procedures increase the risk of bite dysfunction, tooth fracture, and chronic pain.
Patient trust declines sharply when treatment outcomes do not match expectations, contributing to lower follow-up care and worse long-term health.
Dr. Mathews believes these outcomes are largely preventable with consistent standards.
The Proposed Best-Practice Standard
The standard calls for every patient to receive:
Comprehensive diagnostic imaging when clinically appropriate.
A documented treatment plan that considers function, aesthetics, and long-term stability.
Clear explanation of risks, alternatives, and sequencing before treatment begins.
A focus on outcomes that hold up years later, not quick cosmetic fixes.
30-Day Implementation Playbook for Practices
Organizations can begin adopting this standard within one month by following these steps:
Audit current diagnostic workflows and identify gaps.
Standardize use of digital X-rays and intraoral imaging where indicated.
Create a written treatment planning template focused on long-term outcomes.
Train staff on explaining plans clearly and consistently to patients.
Require documentation of alternatives and risks for major procedures.
Build in time for case review before cosmetic or restorative work.
Track re-treatment rates and patient follow-up outcomes.
Review one completed case per week as a team for quality control.
Lightweight Checklist for Individuals
Patients can advocate for this standard by asking:
Was a full diagnosis completed before treatment was recommended?
Were long-term effects explained, not just short-term results?
Were alternatives discussed clearly?
Is the treatment plan documented and easy to understand?
Dr. Mathews encourages dental practices, clinicians, and patients to adopt this diagnostic and planning standard now. Improving trust and quality does not require new regulations or expensive programs. It requires discipline, transparency, and commitment to long-term outcomes.
Readers are invited to adopt the standard, share the playbook with colleagues, and help raise the bar for quality and trust across the dental industry.
About Dr. Jeff Mathews
Dr. Jeff Mathews, DDS, is a dentist and practice owner based in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. He leads Goodlettsville Family Dental with a focus on comprehensive diagnosis, long term oral health, and aesthetic dentistry. His background includes advanced training in full mouth rehabilitation and facial esthetics, along with experience as a real estate investor and licensed realtor.
Media Contact
Dr. Jeff Mathews
info@jeffmathewsgoodlettsville.com
https://www.jeffmathewsgoodlettsville.com/
SOURCE: Dr Jeffrey Mathews
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