Dentistry, and Change

Are all dental business models created equal? We can agree, good healthcare enables doctors to help patients make optimal decisions without undue influence. Whatever the umbrella business model, it must support the sanctity, morality, of the doctor patient relationship.

If the dental profession would like to preserve the doctor-owner tradition, then it must be committed to teach marketable skills to dentist. The dentist-owner must be driven for continuing education. Organized dentistry must be prepared to develop and deliver ready to use educational tools. Business education must be effective and efficient. Dental schools hold a tremendous responsibility in this arena. Business education is as vital as anatomy and operative dentistry. The dental student of tomorrow is a force for change. They should be cognizant, and selective for schools embracing a management curriculum. With more schools in the market, students may choose to become a market force for change.

Organized dentistry wasn’t built overnight. It was cultivated through the efforts and sacrifice of generations. We inherited these assets, and we have the duty for preserving our greatest resource. But how? Does organized dentistry today echo its cohort? What we do know is; there is no room for ambivalence, to shy away from the needs of members. The viability of organized dentistry isn’t based on luck. It’s rooted in outcome. A culture of entitlement, that dentist must join is failing everyone. Dentists who are disillusioned, withdrawn, are failing their business, and their profession. We must come to terms that organized dentistry is the most efficient way forward. Former members won’t be convinced easily. Organized dentistry must embrace change to “earn” lost members. Our leaders must question their value proposition. Understand what is truly valuable to the wet finger dentist. They must give up esoteric agendas that matter little for few.

For our future, it’s time to welcome alternative ideas and voices. The dental practice, and the organized dentistry of tomorrow will be lean, nimble, inclusive and efficient. Most important of all, it will be loyal to those it aspires to serve.

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