Social Media, Everyone Is Doing It?

The most recent buzz in dentistry is Social Media.

I get all kinds of inquiries from dentists who want to know how to write a blog, how to set up a Facebook page.  They want the newest thing, they do not want to fall behind and loose market share.  Still, I think there is a problem.  First, there is the problem of over-saturation, of dilution; everyone’s doing it.  The second concern is that most dentists know dentistry, but they have no idea how to use the tools of Social Media.  They all have a web page, Facebook and Twitter accounts, but rely on someone else, or no one at all, to actualy run the pages, post the comments and photos because they have totally missed the point.  It’s a dead end for them.  It’s useless.

You know there was a time when almost no dentist even had a web page.  Advertising, as it existed just a few years ago was yellow page ads.  In my college economics class, before I was even in dentistry, I asked my professor about something I had noticed.  Some dentists were beginning to advertise.  It was frowned upon for dentists to advertise back then.  It was unprofessional.  Really, this was a pervasive attitude.  It was allowed, but you had to put all kinds of disclaimers in any announcement.  The only thing you were “allowed” to do was announcing the opening of your practice in the local paper and later on, your retirement.  Now, there were a few dentists back then who were beginning to put “ads” in the yellow pages.  These were fairly minimal things; a quarter of a page max.  These dentists enjoyed what you might expect from the increased visibility, an increase in business.

I asked my economics professor, what happens when more and more dentists advertise too.  You know,  just to keep up and compete?  He said the first adopters would reap the most bang for the buck.  Once it spread and most if not all were doing the same thing, the benefit would diminish.  Everyone would be back to square one, but with a higher monthly bill for advertising.

These days we do not advertise, we do “marketing”.  It’s more accepted to put your practice name out there on billboards, TV ads, etc.  There is a reduced stigma.  There is nothing wrong about telling people what you do and where you are located and educating people about your profession.  There is still a concern about deceiving the public, about presenting oneself as something you are not.  For instance, a general dentist saying he does braces is one thing, but saying or implying he is a specialist, an orthodontist, is unethical and in most states illegal.

So, what is the newest thing in marketing? -Social Media.  Dentists are being advised to not only have a webpage, but a business Facebook page, a locations page, a Twitter account and a Blog.  This is good as these are modern vehicles for not only information, but interaction and education. I love it. I started this blog in 2006 and had a Twitter account before most even had heard of it much less understood what it was.  Still, I wonder as more and more dentists get on the bandwagon of “Social Media” that a dilution effect will ensue.  This time perhaps not, at least for those who know how to actually use Social Media.  It is so sad that there are so many physicians and dentists who hire someone to establish their webpage, set up their blog and Facebook Page.  Then they just sit back and expect it all just to run itself like the yellow pages of old.  This is so off the mark.  You have to actually engage, interact, update and communicate on these sites.  It just doesn’t work without that level of energy, interaction, and caring.  You can’t take the Social out of Social Media.

So, Facebook, Twitter, videos, and blogs are all things that can help a practice grow and thrive in the 21st century.  The key is actually knowing how to use these new tools properly.

Social Media, Everyone Is Doing It?

10,000 HOURS Malcolm Gladwell, in his book “Outliers”

Malcolm Gladwell, in his book “Outliers”, puts forward a well researched observation regarding the topic of skill and mastery.  He states that it takes approximately 10,000 hours of concentrated activity to become a master or expert.  He gives examples of concert pianists, sports figures, computer programmers and even The Beatles, who spent many a weekend performing and refining their music and performance skills in clubs well before becoming known to the wider world.  How long is 10,000 hours?  Ten thousand hours comes to working 8 hours a day 5 days a week for at least 5 years.

How does this apply to dentistry?  The art and science of the dental profession certainly falls within the definition of something that is difficult and complex, not only intellectually in diagnosis, knowledge and assessment, but the use of physically demanding and precise surgical techniques.  While there is a certain amount of innate talent and certainly compassion involved, the true mastery takes a long time to develop.

In Pediatric Dentistry, it pretty much takes at least that long.  A new graduate knows a lot, but has not yet mastered the art of the profession.  In fact, in dentistry, we call it dental “practice” because you are really never done learning and improving.

I am humbled that, although I have gone well past the magic number of hours, I still am refining, learning, and relearning how to practice with a certain degree of mastery.  In fact, I think the rule for dealing with children (and their parents) on a daily basis should be closer to 20,000 hours, or maybe a lifetime!

So, if a dentist with many years of experience takes a look and says he is concerned or offers an opinion, you might be well advised to listen.

“Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell :http://www.amazon.com/Outliers-Story-Success-Malcolm-Gladwell/dp/0316017930/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330703736&sr=8-1

10,000 HOURS

Get Those Requirements

In my book, Dental School, I mentioned the trials and difficulties of the dental school experience.  One thing I would like to bring out more is the relentless pursuit of “Requirements.”  What do I mean?  Requirements are the need number of specific procedures you must accomplish to pass or to graduate.  These are things like a specific number of crowns, dentures, root canals, or two surface fillings you must complete.

It always seemed in my experience and in those with whom I talk to, that it was difficult to get these done in a reasonable time frame.  What if the patient you have acquired or been assigned needs three fillings, one root canal and one crown?  That’s great, but you need to do a periodontal surgery crown lengthening and a post and core buildup prior to the crown.  Moreover, the only thing you really need as far as requirements is the crown.  In some schools you have to get all the necessary work done on the patient, much like in the real world.  In some other situations, you may be able to have someone else do the root canal and surgery, then you do the crown, but that can take a while before you get it done.

The thing I want to emphasize is the drive to get the requirements.  It’s not always easy.  Some schools are having a more difficult time getting patients as more and more are treated by private practitioners.  I know some pediatric residents that do only one or two premed (sedation) cases prior to graduation.  In practice I do one or two sedation cases a day.  Experience is an important part of developing and perfecting a skill.  The more you do the more you know how to deal with the little variations in each case.  Requirements are just the way schools have of making sure a dental student gets at least some basic minimal experience before awarding a degree.

Get Those Requirements

Rising DAT scores

The DAT or Dental Admissions Test measures a dental school applicant’s potential for success based on performance in several academic disciplines.  Here is a graph of the rising competitiveness of scores in recent years:

I cannot emphasize more how competitive it is to get into dental school these days.  You must have very good grades and very good DAT scores.  After research and studying recent trends and speaking to Deans of dental schools, I can say with confidence that it is harder to get into dental school than medical school.  I have heard of someone saying, “If I don’t get into dental school, I can always fall back on medical school.” Wow, how times have changed.  In fact, even since I wrote my book and alluded to the increasing application/acceptance ratio to dental schools these days, there has been an increase in the number of applications for the limited slots available.  There is a rapidly rising number of applicants and the quality of those applicants is rising very rapidly as well.

Read more in my book: “Dental School: Preparation, Survival and Success”

Rising DAT scores

Position Available for Pediatric Dentist

Alabama Pediatric Dental Associates and Orthodontics is looking for a Pediatric Dentist to join our group.  I don’t usually blog post such an announcement, but with the great number of people viewing this blog, I am taking the liberty to spread the word here.

We are looking for both full time and flexible part time pediatric dentistry specialists.  If you are looking for a part time arrangement, we can discuss how you can be an integral part of our practice family. In addition, if you are looking for a full time position, we will interested in discussing your future with us as well.

We currently have five pediatric dentists and two orthodontists working in three very new office locations.  We have been very successful in attracting and retaining great doctors over the years.  Our group is one of the most well known and respected practices in the country; thus we can be, and are, very selective.  We are looking for quality applicants with excellent clinical skills and personality.  Our patients deserve a caring doctor with top notch abilities.  Experience in practice is preferred, but we will entertain new graduates as well.  This is for specialists in Pediatric Dentistry only.  We have an integrated management system which makes your day go smoothly and without the worries of running a practice all by yourself.  Please check us out and give us an opportunity to show you how great working with us can be.

Interested doctors can contact us here:
Office Manager
Alabama Pediatric Dental Associates and Orthodontics
4001 Balmoral Drive
Huntsville, Alabama 35801
256-539-7447
bob@cyberdentist.com
*Do not e-mail pediatric dentistry comments or questions, only inquiries about the pediatric dentist position.


Position Available for Pediatric Dentist

How To Study

With all the volume of material a dental or medical student has to remember, how do they do it?  Well, some do the “binge and purge” method, cramming the night before an exam, then forgetting most till the next time.  This is not a good way to really learn.  There is research that repetition over time helps retention.  Information studied one day, then reviewed again the next day or two is better retained.  Here is a reference article:

Psychology Today

Dental Office Stakeout-Lessons in Customer Service

Dental offices would be wise to learn lessons in customer service from other industries.

Take “Restaurant Stakeout,” a Food Network TV show, where restauranteur Willie Degel sets up hidden cameras in a restaurant to assess what is really going on when the owner is away.  Scenes such as rude waitresses, messed up orders, lazy employees, food fights and drinking on the job. Wow. Yes, much of the show is staged, but these kinds of things really happen in real restaurants and businesses.  Willie’s advice and customer service philosophy is usually spot on for any field dealing with people.

As medical and dental professionals, much of our training and education was scientific and treatment oriented.  There was almost no attention given to human relations and certainly not how to run a business.  In addition, many in the medical and science related fields spent much of their time studying by themselves not developing social skills.

Recently, a physician posted on the blog KevinMD about how doctors can learn from working at Starbucks.  Yes, I have noticed physicians especially have lost touch with human relations, service (in the business sense), and personal relationships with patients.  It’s not all their fault as much of medicine has drifted away from free market private practices sensitive to the patients concerns, to third party influenced businesses focused on volume and less and less time with patients.  They are running on a treadmill.  Dentistry has, for the most part, escaped much of this trap.  Patients still have the choice to go to the dentist down the street.

Probably a scenario closer to fact is the TV show “Airline” from a few years ago, where a camera followed around customer service employees from Southwest Airlines on any given problem ridden day.  These are higher stress, higher stakes, more emotional scenarios that cannot be fixed by just a complimentary cup of coffee and a smile.

Richard Branson says to set high expectations of great customer service for your staff, maintain your great reputation, and be the best in the market.  We try, but it is very difficult to master great customer service.  There are so many interactions, so many chances to succeed, or to fail.  There will always be those who will complain, or who are not satisfied.

It’s not easy and I don’t know anyone who does it all perfectly all the time.  I don’t think setting up hidden cameras is critical, nor dramatic confrontations.  What is necessary is a constant attention to the customer (patient) experience.

1.  Have a clean, well taken care of facility
2.  A welcoming friendly staff with a good attitude
3.  Appropriate attire
3.  Clear communication including diagnosis and proposed treatments
4.  Clear communication of financial arrangements and expectations
5.  Reasonable flexibility when things don’t go just as expected
6.  Listening to patient concerns and getting feedback
7.  Systems in place for standard operating procedures and ways of doing things
8.  Realizing people are sometimes emotional and irrational
9.  Realizing you cannot please all of the people, all of the time
10. Have a medical or dental visit yourself-actually be the patient, you will remember what it’s all about
Pediatric Dentistry


Dental Office Stakeout-Lessons in Customer Service

Problems With Multitasking

In My Book, I stress the importance in having the ability to deal with all the demands of being a dentist in a busy office.  There are so many things to think about in a short amount of time.  An intense surgical procedure, an anxious patient, a worrying parent, other waiting patients, scheduling problems, phone calls, etc., all happening all at once, can become overwhelming.  A real ability to multitask would be the ideal in handling a typical day in the office.  Multitasking is often thought of as doing many things at once or switching back and forth rapidly between tasks.  We sometimes fool ourselves that that we are more productive by this kind of multitasking.  There is some research that effective multitasking is not really possible.  Studies show even young sharp minds tend to loose  cognitive ability the more things they have to deal with, thereby reducing productivity.  Have you ever tried to carry on two phone conversations at the same time.  You cannot listen to both, only one at a time.  There was an exhibit at Disney World a few years back (it might still be there in the Hollywood Studios Park), where you would put on headphones and would listen to one story in one ear and another story in the other.  It was impossible to make sense of either.

Focusing on many things at one time, effectively, is not really possible.  The goal is to focus on only one or two things at a time.  There is a certain talent of being able to focus and concentrate effectively on just one thing, then moving to the next item and focusing on that, eliminating distractions as much as possible.  Reducing stress also increases productivity.  This can be difficult to manage.  It seems that it’s not really multitasking you should be attempting to do, but prioritizing your focus and concentration.

Here are a few articles on the subject:

“We’re always multitasking, and that’s the problem”  –Britannica

“Multitasking Makes you Dumber” –Annie Murphy Paul

“Teaching kids to Concentrate”  –Annie Murphy Paul

“Why Multitasking Does Not Work” –Forbes

“You can only remember three or four things at a time”  –Business Insider

“Too much stress results in poor performance” –Business Insider

Problems With Multitasking

The Cost Of Braces Is Going Up?

There are a lot of factors that go into the cost of providing braces.  First, and significantly, it is the diagnostic and technical expertise of the orthodontist.  Try doing braces yourself and you will not likely get the same result.  Secondly, it is the overhead of the orthodontic staff, facilities and associated office costs.  Finally, it is the actual hardware itself, that is, the brackets, wires, adhesives and attachments.  These items are often made of sophisticated metal alloys such as nickel titanium that are manufactured within precise tolerances.  There are laboratory fees as well for diagnostic models or services.  So, as the cost of salaries, health care coverage, utilities, and supplies go up, so does the cost of braces.

Recently, there is another factor, which will increase the cost of providing orthodontic treatment.  That is the new tax that is part of the new Obamacare health care plan.  There is a new 2.3% medical device tax.  Yes, that cost will likely add up to at least $ 175 more than the present fee.

Obamacare tax increases cost of braces

The Cost Of Braces Is Going Up?

How To Keep Your Child Teeth Healthy

Here is an article based on an interview with Dr. Joel Berg, pediatric dentist and president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, discussing prevention of dental disease in children.  Basically, he lists five things: start dental visits early, eat healthy, care for baby teeth, model good habits, and make it fun.

Click the photo to link to the article: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/01/25/how-to-keep-your-child-teeth-healthy/

How To Keep Your Child's Teeth Healthy

Data Analysis, I just got back from a continuing education meeting which happened to be located in Las Vegas

I just got back from a continuing education meeting which happened to be located in Las Vegas. I also watched the movie “21″ which is based on the real life story of a group of MIT students who learned how to count cards and beat the casinos at blackjack.  They made millions.  They did not let the emotion of the moment influence their decisions.  They used simple math, counting the cards already dealt to increase their chances of a winning bet: data analysis and rather fast arithmetic.

How much of dentistry is pure data analytics and how much is gut instinct?  Well, there are two ways to look at it. First, is cold science, numbers, and analytical data analysis.  We do a clinical exam, we look at x-rays, perform diagnostic tests, ask questions.  We consult the published research.  In medicine and dentistry this might be likened to flow chart decision making, or to something called evidence based science.  We use experiments, data and facts to decide the most likely outcomes.  If we don’t, we are just guessing.

Second, there is the theory that real world experience makes the difference, raw talent, esthetic sense, gut instinct.  This is actually backed up by the study that mastery comes about with many hours of practice, error, corrections, and well, experience.  The more you have done something, the better you are at accomplishing the task at the level of a master, the expert.

My analysis is that they both matter.  You have to make decisions based on real science and study of the available data.  Dentists spend four to ten years after college in graduate education and training in science and techniques. Then, there are years of continuing education classes after that.  Collect the facts, the data, analyze, compare, then decide, act.  The problem with dentistry and medicine is that there is always a lot of data that is not knowable, that is missing or not timely.  That is where experience comes into play.  That is, making decisions when you do not have all the data you would like to have.  Sometimes there is more than one appropriate option.  Whether we like it or not, there is a lot of emotion involved.  Sometimes you go on experience and gut instinct.  Count the cards if you can, but sometimes you develop senses that tell you the card count at a subconscious level.  I’d like to think going to the dentist is not a gamble, but as close to a sure thing as you can get.

Data Analysis, or Gambling?

The American Academy Of Pediatric Dentistry Annual meeting

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (the AAPD : http://www.aapd.org/) met in Orlando this year.  I’ve been told an Orlando meeting is the most registered for, least attended meeting the AAPD schedules.  This year there were about 6500 people in attendance.

I was privileged to be asked to judge the annual poster competition.  These are presentations of research projects done typically by pediatric dental residents.  These presentations covered, trauma, oral pathology, orthodontics, sedation and general anesthesia, insurance, Medicaid etc.  Most were very well done and I learned a lot just being a judge.

Here a couple of photos taken with my iPhone (so they are not ideal lighting conditions.) They used an iPad to control the big screen plasma or projector image.  That was a nice use of that technology as they could expand or zoom in on desired items or photos.

In addition to the academic seminars, lectures, and academic presentations, there was some nice benefits to having the meeting in Orlando.  Here we are being welcomed into Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  We (the AAPD), had exclusive use of the park that night.  They had a band, fireworks, no-line waits for rides such as Tower of Terror and Toy Story Mania.  The best part was the red carpet welcome:

Teething Troubles

As a Pediatric Dentist, I see patients from birth to age twenty-one.  In one chair there may be a college age teen who needs his wisdom teeth removed, and in the next, an eight month old with new teeth just coming in.  Yes, we see such young babies.  It is important to have the first visit to the dentist by age one or within six months after the first tooth erupts to establish preventive strategies and make sure dental development is progressing normally.

What concerns many parents are the teething problems associated with the erupting baby teeth.  As the new tooth gets closer to the surface, the gum thins out and you often can see the new tooth bulging right under the thin gum tissue.  Eventually, the gum opens up and the gentile eruptive force of the new tooth moves the tooth up into the mouth. 

When do the teeth come in?  Well, that varies a lot from child to child.  Typically, you might expect the first baby tooth to come in around 6 months of age.*  I see as early as three months and many who are one year of age who don’t yet have their first tooth.  There are actually some kids who are born with a tooth already in place!  The first tooth to come in is typically the lower front incisor.  After that, the order varies with the front four upper and lower teeth coming in first, then the first molars in the back around one year of age or so.  Again, there is a lot of variability.  If you are concerned about any delay, see your Pediatric Dentist.

Does teething usually cause discomfort?  Most of the time babies do not complain much at all when getting their new teeth.  There are, however, times when there are the typical symptoms of teething discomfort.  Many children will begin to drool more than usual.  It’s normal for babies to put things in their mouth exploring textures, but they may want to chew objects a little more than usual to massage the sore gum areas.  They may be grumpy, become more agitated than usual, or even run a slight fever. Mild diarrhea the day the tooth comes in is not unusual.  Constant or severe diarrhea is not normal and should be evaluated by the pediatrician.

Is fever normal with teething?  Now I caution parents to not be too quick to blame a high fever on teething.  New teeth erupting can cause a slightly elevated temperature.  A fever of one hundred or higher should always be looked at with concern as young children are also susceptible to a myriad of conditions that can also cause a fever.  Ear infections are a very common cause of high fevers in babies.  I occasionally see young children with a high fever, multiple oral ulcers who are not eating and are pretty much miserable.  This is not teething, this is an infection caused by the same virus that causes cold sores.  There are many other infections and conditions that can cause a baby to drool, complain and have a high fever, so consult your pediatrician if the fever gets high, or if you are just not sure.

What can you do to relieve any discomfort?  I suggest using cold teething rings or something soft (and safe) so they can chew and help them to feel better.  There is some concern recently about the liberal use of Baby Oragel.  This is the cream with benzocaine, a topical anesthetic that numbs the immediate area when placed on the gums.  I have not seen any definitive study that would cause any concern so long as you use it in a limited manner.  Place a small amount on the gums where the tooth is erupting to provide temporary relief.  Tylenol is ok in appropriate dosages if the child is particularly grumpy or has a low-grade fever; but again, do not dismiss a high fever as just teething.

*Chart of Dental Development : http://www.aapd.org/media/Policies_Guidelines/RS_DentGrowthandDev.pdf

Teething Troubles

Sign This - While at the hospital the other day

While at the hospital the other day, I was asked once again to sign some paperwork for the hospital before being able to see one of our patients in the OR.  Each time there seems to be a new form.

For physicians, dentists, and about everyone else, it appears there is more and more paperwork to be filled out, signed and filed away every day.  Regulations and documentation requirements are taking more and more of a doctor’s time.  In fact, in one recent study, physicians cited electronic medical records (EMRs) as their greatest source of frustration.

Insurance coverage is changing continually as people loose their coverage and obtain new policies.  A good deal of documentation does tend to address patients needs, but seldom generates revenue.  It takes time, and time is money.  Thus, paperwork and the time it takes to properly complete, is one of the many causes of the rising cost of medical and dental care.

1.  JACO  -Hospital regulations.  Every now and then I see the hospital staff with a worried, frenzied look on their faces.  Is it a patient issue?  No, it’s an upcoming JACO review.  Everything has to be in order; signed, filed out, ordered in the approved way.

2.  Obamacare.  Massive increase in disclosure, paperwork, and especially insurance changes, causing many people to loose their coverage, then get new, often confusing coverage.  These changes are nightmares for the front office staff of medical and yes, many dental offices.  Some people have pediatric dental coverage rolled into their new health plan.  Some often get family dental plans to supplement the adults in the family, causing a double-coverage situation for the kids.  There are very large deductibles.  Many doctors are not signed up as “providers” for these new plans.  Confusion is common.  By the way,  I dislike the term “providers”.  Insurance companies and government bureaucrats created the term for their own purposes.

3.  Liability.   There is always the need to document everything to limit liability.  Some documentation is good for patient safety, but some is unrelated to actual care.

4.  Recent requirements for electronic medical records create a situation where your doctor may be looking at a computer screen writing down your symptoms rather than actually looking at you during your conversation.  Some doctors have to hire additional staff to handle the additional dictations, recordings, filings, and well, paperwork.

I have to go now, they want me to sign another form……


Sign This

Put It Out There For Free

Recently, I was asked to speak on marketing and social media.  Our large group pediatric dentistry and orthodontic practice requires a solid marketing plan to keep the practice healthy.  We actually spend more time that I think we should on what is vaguely called “marketing.”

Seth Godin, guru of the marketing world, a while back recommended aspiring writers to “give away” their first book?  Really? I can see writers saying, “No way.  I spent thousands of hours of effort on this thing to just give it away for free”.  How can this work?  As he explains, you gain a following, you gain (deserved) notoriety as an expert and authority.  Then, when your second book comes out, you have a built-in audience.

We as professionals, usually view with disdain trying to “sell” our services.  We want to spend time on dentistry and patient care.  We are above such pandering.  Still, in the modern marketplace, if you do not let people know who you are, what you do, and that you are accepting and want new patients, your practice will slowly whither away.  This is especially true of practices like Pediatrics and Orthodontics.  Your patients eventually grow up and need to be replaced with younger patients to maintain your practice.

I will not go into great detail on dental practice marketing, that would take several books worth of text and seminars to get all that across.  I will say, the number one way to grow your practice is by giving good service and the word of mouth that is generated from that.  Sometimes, however, that is not enough.  It is obvious that part of our profession is to give of our talents.  We do charity work, do overseas mission trips and work for free at local charity clinics.  There is great value just in that.  I think the general public has no real idea how much free service dentists give away every year, sometimes not by choice, -but I will not get into that here.

What I have tried to do with this blog is inform and entertain.  I don’t earn any money off this blog.  In essence, I give it, the content, away for free.  Why?  Well, first off, I just enjoy informing and educating.  I enjoy writing.  Secondly, in a business and marketing sense, reputation leads to increased business, to increased patients wanting your services.  They know you, they respect you because they know you know your stuff.

Other professionals are doing this and vary from musicians to English tailors.  I follow  a music group called Postmodern Jukebox.  They make music videos and post them online.  They are very good, but offer these online for free.  Now, after gaining notoriety, they are offering their songs on iTunes and are starting an American and European tour.  Another musician, Christopher Bill, a trombone player, makes free videos on his websites.  You may have heard of his version of “Happy.”  He now has an album on iTunes and is well known enough I am sure he is getting offers for paying gigs. An English tailor, Thomas Mahon  long ago began blogging about the inside details of his profession.  He now has a thriving business.

All these professionals offered the public something for free.  If anyone wanted to used their paid services, they were certainly welcome to do so, and many have.

So, if you are getting frustrated with your practice marketing, consider offering to be a speaker, offer seminars, blog, write, do online videos—all for free.  Now people can tell if your love it or not, if it is a chore or not.  In the process, you may actually help people.  You will help yourself as well through the process of creating content.  If you show your passion, it will show and return to you in time.
Pediatric Dentistry


Put It Out There For Free

AAPD annual meeting in Boston!

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (the aapd) had its annual meeting in Boston last weekend.  This is the annual gathering of pediatric dentists, staff, vendors, family and friends for fun and education.  Most of the meeting is continuing education.  However, we had the opening party at Fenway Park.  I thought, after having last year’s meeting in Orlando, well, they could not match that.  They did, with a great party atmosphere.  Here are a few photos.  By the way, the security guard at the door asked me if I was from Alabama.  He said, “Really? an Alabama hat?”.  He almost didn’t let me go in, but relented with a wry smile on his face.  I said, Roll Tide.  See if you see any familiar New England characters:

AAPD annual meeting in Boston!

New Year's Resolution...Get A Coach...Really...

I have been practicing for over 22 years and I thought I knew Dentrix inside and out, until I meet the Dentrix Profitability Coach.  It is a monthly coaching system that Dentrix sets up with you to get your database accurate, your numbers correct, and you being able to read the reports that you can rely on.  It is the best investment I have ever made in Dentrix!  You want your monies worth, well this is where you start.  What’s different about this is that the Coach really knows Dentrix inside and out. Believe me! For $ 875 the whole program, are you kidding me?  What a steal.

Expert advice. Higher profits. Superior results.

Profitability Coaching can turn your Dentrix practice management solution into an even bigger and more effective profitability engine—by helping you strengthen the connections between your Dentrix system and your bottom line. With Dentrix Profitability Coaching, you work directly with an expert coach who understands good business practices, has an in-depth knowledge of Dentrix technology, and knows how to bring the two together to make your practice even more profitable and productive.  

https://www.dentrix.com/training/profitability-coaching/Default.aspx

Make this one of your New Year’s Resolution I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!  Get Moving!



New Year's Resolution...Get A Coach...Really...

G5 Launches! Get Ready...

Henry Schein today began shipping Dentrix G5, ( I received  it today) the latest version of the Dentrix practice management system, as part of a phased release that will take several months.  Although the official launch announcement will not be made until the Hinman Dental Meeting in March, Henry Schein is delivering Dentrix G5 to new Dentrix buyers, as well as a restricted number of Dentrix customers as part of a controlled launch. “By extending the release over multiple months, we can ensure all users receive quality technical support if needed during software installation,” said Howard Bangerter, Dentrix Product Manager. “However, if a Dentrix user on a current customer plan wants immediate delivery of Dentrix G5, they can call Dentrix Technical Support and we’ll send it,” Bangerter added.

                                               

I have been able to use it through the beta program for the last few months and love it.  If you had been waiting on the sidelines to upgrade you system with the newest technology, then now is the time.

New to Dentrix G5 is an improved, SQL database with encryption capabilities that improves performance and security of patient data.

Dentrix G5 includes a number of new and improved features, including:

ü  eClaims Attachment Notifications warn users to include attachments on insurance claims for carriers that require them, reducing rejected or delayed claims.

ü  The new Screen Capture utility lets users drag over any part of the visible screen to create a new document and save it to the Document Center.  This is especially useful for creating claims attachments.

ü  Sequentially Numbered Daysheets record each time the Daysheet is printed or previewed.  When combined with logon passwords it creates a gapless record that shows who has accessed the Daysheet and when.

ü  Dentrix Dentalink is a new add-on feature that provides secure instant messaging, letting users easily communicate throughout the office with minimal disruption to patient care and workflow.

ü  The new Dentrix Mobile upgrade is an add-on product that presents an improved interface designed specifically for Apple iPad and Motorola Xoom tablet users.

ü  Electronic Explanation of Benefits (eEOB) lets practices receive, review and automatically record remittance advice in the Dentrix Ledger.

G5 Launches! Get Ready...

When Referring Out...

There is a feature in Dentrix that I never knew was there. That sounds very familiar.  Thus the reason for this Blog.

The feature allows you to select multiple procedures and teeth all at the same time and refer them with one mouse click. When I treatment plan the patient’s case, I used to select each procedure one at a time and then select the referring doctor.  What waste of time!
Here’s how you use it.

Open the patient’s chart:

1.  Select File/ Set Related Referral.

2.  Select and post the procedures to refer.

3. Now all those procedures are marked referred and assigned to the referring provider.

4. Go back to File/Set Related Referral/ select remove (Don’t forget to do this)

5. Then go back to treatment planning.

Thanks to Jason McKnight, my Dentrix Profitability Coach, I have a new way to save time!

When Referring Out...

Dentrix Mobile Gets Bigger, Literally...

I don’t know about you, but my eyes have gone from 20/20 to 20 something because I hit 48 years old.  Wow that went fast.  I guess that’s what happens.  Well, Dentrix to the rescue!

Viewing your smart phone for appointment information when your out of the office was difficult because of the small screens that smartphones have. So, now Henry Schein has announced it has enhanced it’s Dentrix mobile app to take advantage of the large displays and resolution of the Apple iPad and Microsoft Xoom tablets. Not only do you get to see everything without squinting, but it has enhanced features which allows you to add any member of your staff to use it on their devise, and schedule changes on the fly and appointments for your patients (great if you have a call forwarded to a staff member on your day off, but still want someone to answer and schedule patients). It also lets users add notes to the appointment book or confirm appointments — anytime, anywhere.

I personally use the Motorola Xoom because when cruising the web I can view ALL web content, unllike the iPad, which doesn’t work with Adobe Flash.  But, if you can get past that flaw, which most iPad users have, the iPad works great with Dentrix Mobile. For more information go to: http://www.dentrix.com/promotions/mobile/default.aspx

Dentrix Mobile is free if you are on a Dentrix customer support plan. Also make sure you have Dentrix Support help you update your DxWeb tool bar with the new software.  They just remoted into my workstation yesterday and had it set up in minutes.

Tip:  I use my WiFi HotSpot connection from my Droid Razr in the car to connect to my Xoom. This way I don’t have to pay another monthly fee for another devise connected to the web.

So to get started:

1.     Renew support plan if you have not yet
2.     Have Dentrix Support help you update your workstation with the latest Dx Web tool bar



Dentrix Mobile Gets Bigger, Literally...

Microsoft has a new Mouse......Win 7 touch mouse!

If you want to try something pretty cool, the new Microsoft Win 7 touch mouse is a definite look.  It works great with the mutiple windows within Dentrix that you like to have open.The Microsoft Touch Mouse offers intuitive touch-based navigation that complements standard mousing in Windows 7.  Its like the gestures that the Apple mouse has but better.  I love it when I’m doing treatment plans because I can navigate quickly between the Perio Chart, Restorative Chart, CBCT, DEXIS, etc.
Check out the tutorial:  Win 7 touch mouse tutorial  Give it a try and get Moving!

Microsoft has a new Mouse......Win 7 touch mouse!

Spring Cleaning in Dentrix

Over the next couple of posts I’m going to give a few ways to help organize things in Dentrix that has been useful in my practice.

The first one is to create a “Cosmetic” Category in the Procedure Code Category area in the Dentrix Office Manager.  If you do Whitening, Enamel Recontouring, White strips, etc.

Go to the Office manager/maintenance/practice setup/practice definitions/definition type/procedure code categories.  Then click on new and add “Cosmetic” or maybe “Dental Products” for saleable items.

Then go back to all the procedure codes you have set up in the past that fall into these categories and re-categorize them for easy finding from the chart or ledger when posting.  Make sure you select the “show in chart” button in the procedure code screen.

The new Category will show up in the patient Chart in the procedure code area, for easy access!

Spring Cleaning in Dentrix

4G For Your Mobile Devices...Is Worth it!

I recently upgraded my phone to the 4G Droid Razr.  I thought that I would not see much of an improvement in speed.  Boy, was I wrong.  This is smokin fast, not as fast a G5 for Dentrix though, just kidding they are about the same.  Combine the 4G service with the Dentrix Mobile Solution available free from Dentrix when your on a service contract. Dentrix Mobile

The Dentrix mobile is optimized for the i-pad and the Motorola Xoom ( I use the Xoom).  I bought a car attachment for the Xoom and I have it right next to me if I need to check my schedule, call a patient, add a note to the patient’s appointment, check the patients prescriptions etc.  Using the tablet is nicer because you can see the whole appointment book and it is easier to see.

The way to save money if you have Verizon or any of the other carriers, is to sign up for the wireless Hotspot that most all 4G phones offer.  It is a service that costs me $ 20/month extra on my phone bill but once I get in the car with my phone, my tablet connects to it automatically so they share the web connection.  This way you don’t have to pay a monthly fee for your phone and your tablet.  You can connect up to 5 devices to it anytime your out.  So I guess you could share with your family when your on vacation and so forth.

if you want to hear an informative broadcast on what 4G really is listen to this NPR broadcast What does 4G really mean anyway?

4G For Your Mobile Devices...Is Worth it!

iBarrier by Crosstex

If you use ipads in the reception room for patient registration and updating existing patients or in the treatment rooms, congratulation’s!  Your making the world a greener place.  But we need to keep it a safe place also.  Introducing the iBarrier from Crosstex.

iBarrier is a disposable barrier sleeve for tablet computers, so that these frequently touched surfaces don’t present a risk for cross-contamination within your office.

-Touch-sensitive material does not impede operation of the tablet.
-Fits all size tablets.
-Adhesive strip provides tight fit.
-FDA approved material.
-Made in the USA.
-Latex free.

Give them a try.  You can purchase through Henry Schein. 

The Dentrix Dentist

iBarrier by Crosstex

Notezilla-The best way to rid of paper sticky notes

No matter what I do to let the front office know that we are papreless they would still use sticky notes and stick them to their monitor. Until now.  They use Notezilla. Desktop Sticky Notes. Notezilla lets you quickly create sticky notes on Windows desktop.

Sticky notes on desktop allow you to write memos, reminders or a tasks with least effort. Just click, write and go! This is a very productive way of jotting down what’s on your mind without getting distracted.

Features Highlighted:

• Desktop sticky notes


• Password-protected sticky notes


• Checklist based sticky notes


• Website hyperlinks inside sticky notes


• Formatted & transparent sticky notes

The best part is you can link it to Dentrix Modules ex. Chart, Ledger, etc. and the note only shows when you open those modules.

You can download it for free at http://www.conceptworld.com/Notezilla
The Dentrix Dentist

Notezilla-The best way to rid of paper sticky notes

Sign Language...The e-Assistant for your Reception Room

This the only employee in your office that never asks for a raise, always shows up for work, and is engaging your patients and their friends 100% of the time they are in your office.  It is called the e-Assistant form the Digital Clinic www.digitalclinic.com .  You can now order it through Henry Schein.  Ask your sales representative for details.  You can also schedule for a web demo by requesting it from their website.

It is a 42 inch LCD screen that hangs on the wall in your reception area.  It is connected to the web for real time updates.  It engages your patients with information about your practice such as staff bios, services, new equipment, etc.

Highlights:

1.  Facebook Integration
2.  Posts weather
3.  QR codes that connect to your website
4.  Customized messaging that informs your patients about the latest news in your office
5.  Inform your patients about your work in the community, ie TeamSmile, GKAS, etc. 

Call me 816-668-5576 or e-mail me doctor@drbusch.com for questions.  We have been using it for 4 months now and love it!


Sign Language...The e-Assistant for your Reception Room

Electronic Rx through Dentrix...around the corner G5 PP1

To me this is the most anticipated feature in awhile.  E-prescriptions will be here hopefully before year’s end.  Just think about it.  You never have to take your gloves off and sign a prescription while you’re working.  You just turn to your treatment room pc and with a couple of mouse clicks the patient’s rx from Room 5 is already sent to the pharmacy.  I can’t wait.

• Reduce Costs


• Improve Patient Safety


• Save Time

Electronic Rx through Dentrix...around the corner G5 PP1

Call me...Maybe

Call me…. definitely with a VOIP cloud-based phone system!  Yeah! It’s about time.

If you have not noticed lately, the phone in your pocket and the systems being sold to businesses now are computers or computer-based.  If your phone system is as old as a 20-year-old leaking amalgam, then now is the time to update.  You will see integration with your practice management system eventually. A likely example will be when the phone rings, you will have a pop-up window on your computer with the current patient’s information, their ledger, family members due for an appointment, etc.  You will be able to customize what you see.  You will also be able to see a categorized call log of all inbound and outbound calls.  You will just connect your phones to your computer network. 

Cost: Moving to the cloud gives you an easy-to-use phone system for a predictable monthly fee—with no capital expense.

Save the date: August 23rd Phone system free webinar, Click to register.http://www.henryscheintechcentral.com/solutions/phones.aspx

Call me...Maybe

"The Most Important New Technology Since the Smart Phone Arrives December 2012"

I’m so excited about this new technology.  It really will help the health care industry by streamlining the access to the digital record and being able to educate the patient quickly and efficiently.  It is called Leap Motion. It is a small device, that costs $ 70 and plugs into your USB port.  You are now ready to play Tom Cruise in the Minority Report movie. The implications for Dentrix are limitless.  Please read on: http://tinyurl.com/7fuwu2a

The website is www.leapmotion.com for more information.


"The Most Important New Technology Since the Smart Phone Arrives December 2012"

Make a note of that!

A Dentrix Feature which I love that not many use is the, Dentrix “Chart Notations Tool”.  It is located right next to the Primary/Permanent tooth button.  You can use it to:

     
1.        Draw Supernumerary teeth

2.       Flag teeth with a certain color dot or chisel mark that reminds you that you had the talk with the patient about the possibly of the tooth needing root canal treatment in the future because of the depth of the restoration that you just placed.  This way with a quick glance at the chart it will trigger your memory  that you spoke, and if the tooth does need treatment in the future you can remind them that you flagged that tooth for possible future treatment.  If they don’t you look like the hero and if they do you look like you are prepared.

3.       You can place numbers for the Diagnodent readings if you use that devise.

4.       You can draw a symbol for oral pathology.

5.       You will find many uses that you can customize for your practice.

Give it a try! Get Moving!

PS Next Blog will be an update on the use of Dentrix Electronic Rx for Medications.  I have been using that feature for 2 months know and love it.

Make a note of that!

Time to Retire the FAX...with eFax

Well it’s time to retire an old dinosaur.  I loved throwing the FAX in the dumpster.  Well it’s the 21st century and things are easier, right? I think so.  Introducing the eFAX.  It’s been around awhile but its cost effective now and so easy to use.  It is a service that works right on your computer.  All you need is a scanner.  I have researched them all, and found RingCentral to be the best.  It also gets the best ratings among it’s competitors.

-  You can get a toll-free or Local FAX numbers
-  Send and Receive Faxes as e-mail
-  Fax from Microsoft Office and Outlook and other integrations
-  Secure Faxing
-  Edit and Sign Faxes Electronically
-  Fax Alerts
-  Online Account and Fax logs
-  Features for power users
-  Stop wasting paper, block unwanted faxes for good. 

Check out www.ringcentral.com for details. As low as $ 7.99 per month.  You can up and running in a few minutes.

You will love this!  Give it a try and get moving

Time to Retire the FAX...with eFax