We all know that with Halloween comes lots of candy that can wreak havoc on teeth, causing cavities and breaks. For this reason, it’s not uncommon for your dental practice to see an increase in patients shortly after the holiday is over, especially with more food-related holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas around the bend. Here […]
There’s very little as frustrating as a troublesome patient. Unfortunately, difficult patients will always exist. You can be the ultimate professional, meeting your patient halfway every time, and they might still find a reason to be angry. It’s not right, but it’s the reality. The difference ultimately depends on your reaction. Here are some expert […]
Patient retention remains critical in building a thriving, successful dental practice. The principle that attracting new clients costs far more than keeping current patients happy holds true in the world of dentistry. In fact, given the phobias many people have of dental work, patient retention in this field becomes even more important. How can […]
Fear of visiting the dentist is so common that it has become something of a trope in films and fiction. Though the cultural reaction to getting dental work is exaggerated in media there are many legitimate reasons why people have such issues. There is a natural nervousness around visiting any kind of health center, but […]
The insurance landscape today is a perpetual spiders’ web. Life, car, home, health, vision and dental insurance are constantly on the minds of everyday people as they try to make sure themselves and their families are adequately protected. In the health market, insurance falls to employers for the large majority and the brokers who extend […]
With an industry as advanced and tech-focused as dentistry, change is inevitable. But the ability to embrace new technologies and techniques is what is keeping dentistry at the cutting-edge of healthcare. In planning your year ahead, here are some dental technology trends to keep your eye on in 2019! More Automation You’ve likely already seen […]
This year was filled with some talented dentists, hygienists, assistants, and office staff donating their time and talents to better others who, for whatever reason, were unable to get the help they needed. To end the year with a smile, here are 3 stories we think showcase just how great the professionals in our industry […]
Seeking dental care can be a vulnerable experience for a number of reasons. Although it’s common for people to have fears associated with going to the dentist, the risk that their private information could be stolen and misused shouldn’t add to those feelings. Because of this, dental care professional should take extra care in protecting […]
You know that poor dental health leads to serious problems like gingivitis and periodontal disease, but do your patients know the real impact of their bad habits? Their daily soda habit, or cigarette addiction, could lead to expensive and dangerous diseases of the gums, teeth, and mouth. As a dentist, you know it’s your responsibility […]
While patients rarely have dangerous conditions when seeking dental care, “going to the dentist” is a universally hated activity. Part of it may have to do with guilt — most people don’t take as much care of their teeth as they know they should. Part of it is the dread of needing to have work […]
As dental professionals, there are some things we wish our patients knew. Some seem obvious (don’t use your teeth to open a beverage), and others slightly more technical (dental x-rays don’t produce enough gamma radiation to hurt you). Regardless, we don’t always have the time or space to share what’s really on our mind when […]
Dental industry trends are constantly changing, and it’s important to stay on top of them to ensure you’re providing the latest and greatest to your patients. Here are five dental industry trends to consider: 1. Group Practices Group practices have increased in popularity for two big reasons: 1. The dental school debt struggle is real […]
Helping patients say YES to dentistry Every day your patients are faced with hard choices about the dentistry you present to them in your treatment plans. A crown or a new iPhone. An implant or saving for a vacation. Periodontal therapy or new clothes. Your patients have so many choices about dental products and services, […]
There are certain dental hygiene habits that drive us dental professionals insane. Chewing fingernails? Surprisingly damaging (and pretty gross). Come on, people! We’ve compiled a list below of 5 habits we wish our patients would finally kick to the curb. Which of these make you cringe the most? 1. Smoking One of the worst possible dental […]
So, what does a dental patient think while you’re examining them? Most of us know what it’s like to be the one cleaning the teeth. All sorts of thoughts run through our heads (many of which we probably can’t say out loud). But there’s, obviously, another character in the room while you’re cleaning — the […]
Happy Dental Assistant Recognition Month! A few weeks ago, we asked the dental community why they loved being a dental assistant and the response was overwhelming! We received hundreds of responses from dental assistants across the country and in many different phases of their careers. Across the board, dental assistants are a happy bunch (even despite […]
There are many reasons to enjoy a career as a dental assistant. It’s fairly sociable, you get to perform meaningful tasks in the practice, and it is a great step for those seeking a career in dentistry. Plus, it doesn’t take an extensive amount of time to get fully certified. But, like any job, there […]
What’s the first thing you did this morning? Did you grab your phone? If so, you’re among the 80% of smartphone users who report that they check their phones within 15 minutes of waking up. Incorporating digital into your dental advertising strategy has never been so important. We’re tied to our phones from the time […]
Owning and running a successful dental practice is no easy task. Apart from overseeing all the ongoing dental procedures, a dentist must also place focus on the smooth functioning of the organization as a whole. Focus on day-to-day operations in necessary as it helps achieve a vital element of any successful business – exceptional customer […]
I’m asked this question a lot by the dental office managers and owners that I meet and my answer may surprise you. First, let me emphasize how important it is to make sure that all your patients leave your office with their next appointment scheduled. This is more than a preference—it should be your office […]
Here is an important thing to understand about your patients who say they “just don’t have the money” for the dental work they need… Most of your patients really do have enough money to cover their dental health needs. They just choose to spend it on other things. We have to recognize that our patients […]
Yes! With the right training, communication, and follow-through, there is absolutely no reason that patients cannot be moved to help make the schedule the best it can be. In fact, when done correctly, I actually encourage it. Before you start moving patients to maximize your schedule, there are a few things that you need to […]
Dentistry has been a tremendous blessing for me. I see our profession not just as a job, but also as a calling. I have had some great mentors who have shared, taught, and guided me. I will be forever grateful. I feel so privileged to be able to serve my patients. Over the years I […]
As the Pankey Cross of Dentistry implores us: “Know Yourself, Know Your Work, Know Your Patient, Apply Your Knowledge, and you will experience both a Spiritual as well as a Material reward.” Clearly, taking time to establish a strong relationship with your patient family – one person and one procedure at a time – and […]