Temple Bar, Trust & The Book of Reviews: Nabeel’s Dublin Reflections on Ratings, Reputation & the Real Practice of Dentistry
Prologue
Some cities are more than locations—they’re lessons waiting to be revisited. For Nabeel, Dublin was one such place. Each visit to RCSI wasn’t just about continuing education; it was about rekindling his love for learning and for the spirit of Irish dentistry.
His favorite place to stay? A cozy hotel near St. Stephen’s Green, where he could walk to the trams, enjoy early morning coffee, and admire the architecture that whispered history. For Nabeel, this wasn’t just a professional trip. It was soul work.
Temple Bar & Two Conversations That Matter
One misty Dublin afternoon, Nabeel met with two dentists at a quaint café in Temple Bar.
Wynona, a well-established Irish private practitioner, and Dr. Ramya Sen, an implantologist originally from India, who had practiced in Dubai and recently moved to Dublin.
Outside, an Elvis impersonator crooned “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Inside, the topic was less romantic: online reviews.
“I got a one-star review,” Ramya said, stirring her tea. “The patient said I overcharged. I used bioceramics and premium rotary files. How do I explain quality to someone comparing me to a local salon?”
Wynona added, “Mine said the clinic wasn’t clean. We follow HSE protocols to the letter. It felt unfair.”
Nabeel nodded. “I hear this in every country, every city. From Delhi to Dubai, Tokyo to New York. The reviews are different, but the emotions? Always the same.”
When Cities Talk Through Reviews: A Global Map of Dental Challenges
Nabeel began:
- “In Delhi, a young associate received a harsh comment about a failed filling. The patient didn’t mention their diabetes.”
- “In Dubai, a confident Invisalign dentist was labeled ‘pushy.’”
- “In Tokyo, someone said ‘clinic too small.’ But that’s Tokyo—space is premium.”
- “In Beijing, ‘dentist was cold.’ Turns out, he was simply focused.”
- “In New York, five-star reviews made a clinic seem ‘fake.’ Even excellence now feels suspicious.”
He leaned in. “To Gen Z, Google ratings are more powerful than degrees. They read reviews like scripture. You don’t just treat teeth—you manage perception.”
The 5 Most Common Review Problems—and How to Respond Gracefully
- “Clinic wasn’t clean”
Response: “We follow strict sterilization protocols aligned with health regulations. Your feedback helps us do even better.” - “Too expensive”
Response: “Our prices reflect the quality of materials and time spent. We’d be happy to explain the breakdown anytime.” - “Too many 5-star reviews—feels fake”
Response: “We ask all patients for honest feedback. We welcome all kinds—your input helps us grow.” - “Dentist was rude”
Response: “We’re sorry you felt that way. We’re committed to better communication and always happy to listen.” - “They pushed unnecessary treatment”
Response: “All treatment is based on diagnostics and patient consent. Let’s review your options together if needed.”
The Book of Kells and the Book of Reviews
Later, as Nabeel walked past the queue for The Book of Kells at Trinity College, he couldn’t help but draw a parallel.
“This ancient book,” he thought, “is protected, cherished, believed. Online reviews are today’s Book of Kells—vulnerable, editable, but still sacred.”
He smiled. “Every review is a chance to shape the story your clinic tells.”
Dinner with Glen: The Accountant’s Wisdom
That evening, Nabeel was picked up by Glen, his long-time friend and a wizard with numbers. In Glen’s shiny new red Tesla, they drove through Dublin to a Turkish diner on Camden Street.
Over plates of lamb and bread, they caught up.
“Glen,” Nabeel said thoughtfully, “I need to learn accounting from you. Dentists must know how to manage stock, order systems, track profits—and still keep their sanity.”
Glen laughed. “Dentistry, accounting, accountability. Sounds like a workshop waiting to happen.”
Later, after a quick stop at Penneys, Glen dropped Nabeel at his modest hotel on Harcourt Street.
“You’re always welcome, Nabs,” Glen said.
“And you,” Nabeel smiled, “are always invited into my syllabus.”
Epilogue: A Room, a Review, and the Right Perspective
The room was small. But warm. Nabeel appreciated simplicity.
He checked his phone—one new review from a clinic he had helped in Santiago. Four stars. Honest. Encouraging.
He whispered aloud:
“Managing reviews is like preserving ancient wisdom. It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence, honesty, and humility.”
Then he slept, knowing tomorrow would bring new clinics, new questions—and new chances to guide.
Author:
Dr. Syed Nabeel, BDS, D.Orth, MFD RCS (Ireland), MFDS RCPS (Glasgow)
Dr. Syed Nabeel – Dedicated to Neuromuscular Dentistry, Orthodontics & Digital Innovation
Dr. Syed Nabeel is a dentist and innovator committed to education, patient care, orthodontics, and research. As Founder & CEO of DentistryUnited.com (since 2004), he has built a global platform for dental professionals. He also launched Dental Follicle – The E-Journal of Dentistry (ISSN 2230-9489) in 2006 to promote scholarly exchange in dentistry and orthodontics.
Clinical Practice & Leadership
As Managing Director of Smile Maker Clinics Pvt Ltd, Dr. Nabeel manages his practices and plans nationwide expansion with a focus on evidence-based dentistry and research. His areas of focus include:
✔ Neuromuscular Dentistry & TMJ Treatment
✔ Full-Mouth Rehabilitation & Smile Makeovers
✔ Orthodontics – Braces, Aligners & Digital Treatment Planning
25 Years of Learning & Innovation in Dentistry & Orthodontics
With 25 years of experience, Dr. Nabeel continues to explore AI, orthodontics, and digital workflows to enhance patient care. His key interests include:
AI in Dentistry & Orthodontics – Improving diagnostics & treatment precision
Digital Dentistry & Workflow Optimization – Enhancing efficiency & patient experience
Educator & Speaker
A dedicated mentor & speaker, he enjoys sharing insights on:
✔ Neuromuscular Dentistry, Orthodontics & TMJ Disorders
✔ Practice Management & Digital Integration
Beyond Dentistry
Dr. Nabeel finds joy in wildlife photography, travel, and gardening, always eager to learn from new experiences. Grateful for his mentors, colleagues, and patients, he remains committed to growth and innovation in dentistry and orthodontics.
Email: dentistryunited@gmail.com
Website: www.DentistryUnited.com