Patient who uses methamphetamines — what is an appropriate open-ended question about oral hygiene?

Correct answer: A. 'How do you brush your teeth and gums?'

• A. Correct. An open-ended, non-judgmental question invites the patient to share detail about their actual oral hygiene routine, supporting better rapport and more useful clinical information than a closed yes/no question.
• B. This is a closed-ended question that limits the depth of information gathered and isn't the preferred open-ended communication style.
• C. This is a leading, judgmental question that could damage rapport and trust with the patient.
• D. Avoiding the topic entirely misses an opportunity for important behavioral/health counseling.

Note: What to specifically avoid prescribing/using in methamphetamine users: epinephrine (risk of dangerous sympathomimetic drug interaction).