The ADA Practical Guide to dental Letters 5 Think Before You Write — or Click “Send” or “Post” Remember that every communication you send, whether paper or electronic, is a reflection of your practice. If a patient has not yet visited your office, your communication may be his or her first impression. Though posting on Facebook or Twitter may feel less formal than writing a letter, there is no excuse for sloppy grammar or spelling errors. Your computer’s spell check feature will not catch every error, so ask another person to proofread your communications before you send them. It is also important to note the ease in which electronic communications can be posted and forwarded for the world to see. You may want to think about which communications are appropriate to be sent electronically. For example, it may be more suitable to send financial or insurance information as paper letters for both confidentiality and documentation purposes. Moreover, something you post today can be accessed indefinitely. Keep your communications professional in tone, and don’t let your emotions get the best of you, even if someone has a negative opinion about something you post. Let your online reputation be an expression of your best professional self.