Unlike previous studies that examined specialized populations or were completed some years ago, this survey collected information from a cross-section of patients who were currently receiving various kinds of dental treatment. Although the study disclosed that patients' preferences and perceptions of dentists' performance might vary within and between demographic groups, a more important finding was that, in general, most patients in all demographic groups held common beliefs about how they would like to be treated by their dentists. However, according to the reports of these patients, the dentists did not always behave in ways that were congruent with the patients' preferences. The study showed that patients are sensitive to dentists' behaviors. It should also be noted that dentists are sensitive to patients' behaviors and that dentist-patient relationships may be a source of stress for both patients and dentists. Nevertheless, the responsibility for setting the tone of these relationships rests primarily with the dentist rather than with the patient. Therefore, it is important for dentists to be aware of the needs and preferences of their patients so that they can act in ways that will make patients comfortable and dental treatment a positive experience. The potential that appears to be inherent in good, satisfying dentist-patient relationships for minimizing patient stress and making dentistry a less stressful profession has yet to be fully realized. Dentistry is a two-way street: whatever benefits the patient should in turn benefit the dentist as well.