How can I Grow my Dental Practice to Best Practice Standards in Dentistry?

Have you been struggling to get the practice systems in place in your practice that ensure you that your business and your practice are operating with the highest level of security, clinical outcomes, customer service and profitability? This is common for many dentist across the country in this rapid changing field. Let’s first understand what “Best Practice” means and then you can mentally assess where you are and areas that you might need to focus in on. 

What Does Best Practice in dentistry mean ?

In the rapidly evolving field of dentistry, the term “best practice” signifies the highest standard of care based on current evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences. It encompasses a wide range of elements, from infection control protocols to advanced treatment methodologies, aiming to provide optimal patient outcomes. Understanding what best practice entails is crucial for dental professionals striving to deliver exceptional care.

Key Components of Best Practice in Dentistry

1. Evidence-Based Dentistry

Evidence-based dentistry (EBD) is the cornerstone of best practice. It involves integrating the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient values.

The process typically follows these steps:

• Formulating a clear clinical question.
• Searching for the best available evidence.
• Critically appraising the evidence for its validity and applicability.
• Applying the evidence in clinical practice.
• Evaluating the outcomes.

EBD ensures that dental treatments and procedures are grounded in scientifically validated research, reducing the reliance on outdated practices or anecdotal evidence for your patients. It’s imperative that your dental education advances year over year as technology, state laws and new techniques evolve for routine care. 

2. Patient-Centered Care

Patient-centered care is another crucial aspect of best practice in dentistry. It emphasizes the importance of involving patients in their treatment decisions and tailoring care to their individual needs and preferences. This approach fosters a collaborative relationship between the dentist and the patient, enhancing patient satisfaction and compliance with treatment plans. Co-Discovery with clinical team members, detailed  hand -offs between providers and complete chart documentation are considered “Best Practice” systems.

3. Continuing Professional Development

The field of dentistry is continually advancing with new technologies and treatment modalities. Best practice requires dental professionals to engage in lifelong learning through continuing professional development (CPD). Regular participation in CPD activities ensures that dentists and their employees who care for their customers each and every day  stay current with the latest advancements in dentistry and help advance their knowledge as the company grows new services. 

4. Infection Control

Infection control is paramount in dental practice. Adhering to stringent infection control protocols protects both patients and dental staff from infectious diseases. This includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sterilization of instruments, and adherence to hand hygiene guidelines. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the importance of robust infection control measures in dental settings and everyone is on video these days and who wants that video of poor infection control posted on social media ? Can we say “Career Killer” 

5. Use of Advanced Technology

Incorporating advanced technology into the dental practice is a hallmark of best practice. Technologies such as digital radiography, digital photography, digital scanners,  CAD/CAM systems, digital communication, digital payment systems to enhance the customer experience, diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes. For instance, digital radiography reduces radiation exposure and provides clearer images, while CAD/CAM systems enable the fabrication of precise dental restorations in one visit and things like digital paperwork create more connections between the practice and the patient (which again is your customer) 

Key Facts About Best Practices in Dentistry

• EBD Integration: Studies have shown that the integration of evidence-based practices in dentistry can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the incidence of dental caries and periodontal disease.
• Patient Satisfaction: Patient-centered care approaches have been linked to higher levels of patient satisfaction ,better adherence to treatment plans, and increased referrals from loyal patients. 
• CPD Importance: Research indicates that continuous professional development is essential for maintaining clinical skills and practice knowledge, ultimately leading to better patient care.
• Infection Control Efficacy: Effective infection control measures have been proven to reduce the transmission of infectious diseases in dental settings which mean OSHA isn’t knocking at your door! 
• Technology Adoption: The adoption of advanced technologies in dentistry has led to more efficient and accurate diagnoses and treatments. This also maintains the  value of your business. (Its no different that updating your home to maintain resell value, why do we treat the dental practice differently?)

Here are a few tips for Implementing “Best Practices “in your dental practice today! 

1. Regular Training and Workshops

To implement best practices, dental practices  should organize regular monthly training sessions and workshops for their entire team. These sessions can cover the latest research findings, new technologies and equipment, systems and updated guidelines as well as create opportunities to role play out issues that occur each day. Engaging the entire team to contribute to these types of meetings help guarantee successful outcomes that pay off immediately for the business.

2. Developing Practice  Guidelines (for every department and how the company operates) 

Dental practices should develop and adhere to practice guidelines that meet best practice models.. These guidelines can standardize care and ensure that all practitioners within the practice follow best practices. Regularly reviewing and updating these guidelines is essential to keep them relevant.

3. Investing in Technology

Investment in modern dental technology is crucial for implementing best practices. Dental clinics should consider acquiring digital radiography systems, CAD/CAM technology, and other advanced tools. Training your team use these technologies effectively is equally important.

4. Enhancing Patient Communication

Effective communication with patients is a key component of patient-centered care. Dental practitioners should take the time to explain treatment options, risks, and benefits clearly. Using visual aids and digital tools can enhance patient understanding and engagement.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation

Regular monitoring and evaluation of practice guidelines and systems in your practice  are essential to ensure adherence to best practices. Dental practices should be conducting monthly audits for all business and clinical systems, gather patient feedback, and analyze clinical outcomes to identify areas for improvement. Implementing a quality assurance program can help maintain high standards of care is key to moving towards “best practice”.

Best practice in the dental field is an evolving concept that encompasses evidence-based dentistry, patient-centered care, continuous professional development, infection control, and the use of advanced technology. By adhering to these principles, dental professionals can provide the highest standard of care, improve patient outcomes, and maintain their competency in a rapidly advancing field. Investing in regular training, developing clinical guidelines, embracing new technologies, enhancing patient communication, and monitoring clinical practices are essential steps for dental clinics aiming to implement best practices. Ultimately, a commitment to best practice fosters a culture of excellence and ensures that patients receive the best possible dental care.

By understanding and implementing best practices, dental professionals not only enhance their clinical performance but also contribute to the overall advancement of the dental field. This approach ensures that the care provided is effective, efficient, and aligned with the latest scientific evidence, thereby improving the health and well-being of patients. If you desire to run a dental practice that portrays “best practice” connect with us today here at info@bryantconsultants.com for a free one hour consultation to discuss your dental practice goals!