Improvise, Adapt and Overcome
“Improvise, Adapt and Overcome”—this powerful, albeit unofficial, slogan of the U.S. Marine Corps encapsulates a core set of values essential for navigating adversity and achieving victory.
As a M.O.M. (Mom of a Marine), this mantra has transcended its military origins to become a guiding principle in my own life. What began as a lesson learned on the home front has profoundly influenced my approach to the professional landscape, particularly within the constantly evolving dental industry.
The following discussion will delve into how the tenets of improvisation, adaptation, and overcoming have become indispensable tools for success in the multifaceted world of dental practice management.
Improvise: Resourcefulness in the Face of the Unexpected
The realm of dentistry is characterized by its perpetual state of flux. Change is the only true constant from the ever-shifting sands of insurance regulations and the constant introduction of novel materials and cutting-edge equipment to the inevitable malfunctions and unforeseen circumstances. This dynamic environment frequently presents challenges that demand immediate and resourceful solutions.
Consider the frustrating scenario where an insurance company suddenly alters its coverage policies, rendering a previously authorized treatment no longer financially viable for a patient. Or imagine the predicament of a pre-determination secured in December under one insurance plan becoming invalid in January due to the patient’s switch in coverage.
The products we rely on, like a trusted composite resin, might be discontinued and replaced by a “new and improved” version that fails to meet the provider’s expectations regarding handling or aesthetic outcome, such as a subtle yet noticeable shade variation. Even beloved and dependable dental equipment can unexpectedly break down, leaving us scrambling for repairs, only to discover that crucial parts are no longer manufactured.
In these moments of disruption, the ability to improvise becomes paramount. It requires a calm and collected assessment of the immediate situation, coupled with a decisive approach focused on achieving the best possible outcome for both the patient and the dental practice.
Improvisation in this context means leveraging the available resources—be they existing materials, alternative procedures, or the collective knowledge and skills of the team—to bridge the gap created by unexpected obstacles. It might involve creatively utilizing existing inventory to temporarily address a supply shortage, employing a different yet effective clinical technique when primary equipment malfunctions, or skillfully communicating with an insurance company to explore alternative coverage options or appeal a denial.
The essence of improvisation lies in the capacity to think on your feet, to find innovative solutions within the constraints of the present circumstances, and to keep moving forward without being paralyzed by the unexpected.
Adapt: Embracing Change and Adjusting Strategies
While improvisation addresses immediate disruptions, adaptation involves a more strategic and long-term response to evolving circumstances. Once we have identified the challenges—whether they stem from insurance complexities, supply chain issues, or equipment limitations—the next critical step is to adapt our processes and strategies to mitigate their impact and ensure the continued smooth operation of the practice.
Adapting to Insurance Challenges: Navigating the intricacies of dental insurance requires constant vigilance and a willingness to adjust our communication and administrative protocols. When a patient arrives for treatment with a newly changed insurance plan, rendering their existing pre-determination invalid, a proactive and empathetic approach is crucial. E
xplaining the situation to the patient, outlining the necessity of a new pre-authorization, and reassuring them that the practice will handle resubmission can alleviate anxiety and foster trust. Offering alternative treatment options that do not require prior authorization can also provide immediate solutions and demonstrate a commitment to the patient’s well-being.
Furthermore, implementing a standardized protocol of explicitly asking patients about their specific insurance carrier at each visit (“Mr. Smith, do you still have MetLife as your dental coverage?”) rather than a general inquiry can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering unexpected insurance changes mid-treatment. Another vital adaptive measure is educating patients to proactively inform the practice of any insurance updates before their appointments.
Adapting to Supply and Equipment Challenges: Supply chain disruptions and equipment obsolescence necessitate flexible procurement strategies and proactive maintenance planning. When a preferred product is discontinued, actively involving the dental provider in selecting a suitable replacement is essential for ensuring their satisfaction and confidence in the new material.
Facilitating “lunch and learn” sessions with representatives from dental supply companies can provide valuable insights into new products and often lead to greater provider buy-in. When faced with malfunctioning or outdated equipment, a thorough assessment of repair options versus replacement costs is necessary.
Obtaining quotes for loaner equipment during repair or replacement periods can minimize disruption to patient care. Moreover, developing contingency plans that outline alternative treatment workflows when primary equipment is temporarily unavailable demonstrates adaptability and ensures the continuity of essential services. This might involve having backup equipment or identifying nearby practices with whom collaborative arrangements could be made in emergencies.
Overcome: Resilience and Proactive Preparedness
The culmination of improvisation and adaptation is the ability to consistently overcome the myriad challenges that arise in the dental profession. Each day presents unique circumstances, and maintaining a focused and solution-oriented mindset is crucial for navigating these complexities successfully.
Overcoming is not merely about reacting to problems as they occur; it involves a proactive approach to anticipating potential challenges and developing strategies to mitigate their impact.
A Culture of Preparedness
As highlighted in the preceding sections, many scenarios can unfold within a dental practice. Therefore, cultivating a culture of preparedness is paramount. This includes having well-defined protocols for handling common insurance issues, establishing relationships with multiple dental supply vendors to minimize the impact of shortages, and implementing regular maintenance schedules for critical equipment.
Role-playing potentially challenging patient interactions or equipment malfunctions can help the team develop effective responses and build confidence in handling difficult situations.
By anticipating potential obstacles and proactively developing solutions, dental professionals can minimize stress, maintain efficiency, and consistently deliver high-quality patient care, ultimately embodying the spirit of “Improvise, Adapt, and Overcome.”
About the Author
Makenzie Walton, MAADOM
Makenzie Walton-Vega is the SW Mo Regional Manager with Access Dental Services, LP in Missouri, a growing company with 7 current locations and a Digital Lab, of which she oversees 3, as well as the Digital Lab. She has worked in dentistry for over 24 years, starting as a chairside dental assistant then into management in 2015.
She received her FAADOM in 2024 and her MAADOM in 2025.
