Orthodontics’ future challenging, but bright

Ever-increasing operating costs, increased and sometimes-unreasonable patient expectations, and litigations against orthodontists were some of the common concerns. Many conclude that the “golden age” of orthodontics has passed. While I agree with the concerns, there is reason to be optimistic about our future and excited about what contemporary practice has to offer our patients in improving their oral health. Let me try to explain why.

We are better prepared to understand factors that contribute to patient satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Patient satisfaction with orthodontic treatment depends as much on the “quality of the patient experience” or on psychological factors, as on the orthodontist’s perception of the “quality of the treatment result.”

Focusing on the patient’s perception of what matters during treatment has been shown to increase both patient and parent satisfaction with outcomes.

Armed with modern technologies, orthodontists are better able to respond to patient needs. CBCT radiography, modern self-ligating appliances, advanced diagnostic and treatment concepts, TADs, and soft-tissue lasers have contributed to contemporary orthodontic practice and improved the lives of our patients.

Each of these advances brought with it demands for further training, revisions of existing office systems, and in many cases, legislative involvement.

We are entering a new era in orthodontics, with greater competition, higher patient expectations, and increased legislative involvement. Fortunately, improved technology (product), ease of stakeholder involvement (people), and adoption of TQM principles (process), has never been easier.

The future is so bright “you have to wear shades!”

Note: This article, by Duncan Y. Brown, BSc, DDS, D. Ortho, was published in Dental Tribune Canada, Vol. 5 No. 5, October 2011.