Embracing the Best of Both Worlds: Balancing Innovation and Tradition in Dental Practices
Every year, as I eagerly anticipate the AADOM Conference, I immerse myself in the latest innovations and trends for dental offices.
It’s a whirlwind of questions:
- What’s new and groundbreaking?
- What should be the next addition to my practice?
- Can I afford to miss out on any of it?
My office prides itself on staying technologically advanced. We boast AI-driven radiographs, an integrated communication system seamlessly connected to our Practice Management Software, intraoral scanners, digital X-rays, and more.
The allure of cutting-edge technology is irresistible, and I often covet the luxurious amenities and state-of-the-art equipment showcased in other dental offices. Their websites dazzle with sleek designs, captivating artwork, and inviting ambiance. It’s easy to get caught up in the allure of the “greener grass” on the other side.
A Recent Experience Opened My Eyes to a New Perspective
During my community service requirement for my DAADOM journey, I had the opportunity to spend time in a dental office that, unlike mine, operated with a nod to tradition.
Despite relying on outdated practices like landline phones and handwritten consent forms, this office thrived. Their success was built on a foundation of personalized patient care, word-of-mouth referrals, and a deep understanding of their community’s needs. This experience was a revelation, forcing me to reevaluate my own assumptions about what constitutes a successful dental practice.
While there, I discovered the beauty of interpersonal connections that transcend automation. Simple gestures like personalized confirmation phone calls, which I had taken for granted in my more automated office, spoke volumes about the depth of patient relationships fostered in this traditional setting.
Instead of a conventional office manager, they had a collaborative approach where each team member took ownership of their responsibilities, resulting in a harmonious and efficient workflow.
Initially, I entered their office with a mindset geared towards modernization. I was quick to identify areas for improvement and necessary changes. However, as I immersed myself in their environment, I realized that what works for one practice may not necessarily apply to another. Despite lacking modern amenities, their patients remained loyal, and their practice thrived.
Reflecting on this experience, I came to a profound realization. Success in dentistry isn’t solely determined by the latest technology or the most stylish décor. It’s about understanding the unique needs of your patients and community and delivering exceptional care that resonates on a personal level.
True Success Lies in the Relationships We Build and the Quality of Care We Provide
While my office may have a sleek website and cutting-edge tools, the traditional office I visited proved that true success lies in the relationships we build and the quality of care we provide. This understanding is the key to our profession and what sets us apart.
A fundamental aspect of successful dental practices is understanding the needs of your office. From technology to patient care, team dynamics, and community engagement, everything needs to be done to the best of everyone’s abilities for the best of their office.
Dental practices that understand this will see resiliency and stand the test of time. So, let’s celebrate our differences and learn from one another—it will all aid in providing the best possible care for our patients.
While it’s natural to be drawn to the allure of innovation, let’s remember the value of tradition. As dental professionals, let’s appreciate and actively embrace the diversity of approaches within our field.
Recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all formula for success. After all, the grass may be greener on the other side, but it’s the diversity of landscapes that makes our profession truly vibrant. Let’s be inspired by this diversity and use it to fuel our own unique approaches to patient care.
About the Author
Yvette Medellin, DAADOM
Yvette S. Medellin, MAADOM, graduated from Pepperdine University in 1998 with her MBA.
Prior to her life in dentistry, she was a business consultant in the entertainment industry for over 16 years. Yvette has spent the last nine years helping her husband Joe build and run their dental practice, OrthoGrace Dental along with their dental lab, 4M Dental Labs.
Yvette is a proud member of AADOM and earned her Fellowship (FAADOM), Mastership (MAADOM) in 2023, and Diplomate (DAADOM) in 2024. Yvette also serves as a Board Member on the Dental Spouses in Business DPLN.
When she isn’t working, Yvette spends her time volunteering as an Uber so she can cheer from the sidelines of her kids’ basketball, volleyball and soccer games and cheer competitions.
