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Professional Courtesy: Future Focused by Dr. Thomas Giacobbi

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Professional Courtesy: Future Focused


by Thomas Giacobbi, DDS, FAGD, editorial director

A Vision for the Future
I recently received a link to read the “2025 Dental Trends Outlook” by Dr. Ryan Hungate, chief clinical officer at Henry Schein One. I want to share some of my thoughts and reactions to this trend outlook. Technology is at work in many different places in our dental practices, and AI will accelerate the growth of available features. These innovations are essential because of the shortage of skilled professionals to care for our patients and the growing expectation among patients that technology will enhance their experiences. However, technology alone will not make your dental office succeed. Using the time saved through technology to provide a personalized experience is the winning strategy for success. Technology should provide a consistent experience in your practice, and the personalities of your team members should provide a lasting impression.


Staffing Challenges
Staffing shortages remain one of the biggest challenges for dental practices, especially among dental hygienists and assistants. This isn’t a temporary hurdle—it’s a structural issue that demands new approaches. By incorporating tools such as online scheduling systems, automated patient reminders, and eligibility checks, practices can reduce the need for manual labor in routine tasks, allowing their teams to focus on higher-value activities.

Instead of asking an overworked front-desk team to manage complex schedules, let technology handle appointment confirmations and cancellations. Similarly, automated insurance verification can save hours of manual data entry and phone calls, creating a more streamlined and less error-prone process.


Meeting Patient Expectations
In the age of convenience, patients now expect their health care providers to offer the same seamless digital experiences they encounter in other industries. According to Dr. Hungate’s report, a significant percentage of patients prefer online booking and automated reminders over traditional methods.

Technology also offers an opportunity to improve communication. Patients appreciate practices that anticipate their needs—whether through text reminders, streamlined digital forms, or post-visit follow-ups. These touchpoints demonstrate that your practice values their time and experience.


Improving Treatment Plan Acceptance
One of the most exciting aspects of AI in dentistry is its potential to increase treatment plan acceptance. Many patients hesitate to proceed with recommended care because of cost concerns or not understanding the problem’s urgency. AI bridges this gap by making diagnoses and treatment plans more transparent and engaging.

For example, AI-enhanced radiograph analysis can visually demonstrate areas of concern, helping patients see exactly why a procedure is needed. Studies cited in the trend outlook reveal that patients are significantly more likely to trust recommendations supported by AI tools. This trust doesn’t replace the dentist’s expertise but complements it, fostering confidence and improving outcomes for both patients and practices.


A Personalized Touch
While automation and AI are critical, they are not a substitute for the human touch that defines exceptional patient care. Instead, they provide the time and consistency needed for dental teams to focus on creating personalized experiences that resonate with patients.

Technology can handle the routine, but it’s the personal connections—the warm greeting at the front desk, the thoughtful follow-up call, and the genuine care from the team—that leave a lasting impression.


What Will You Do First?
When incorporating new technology into your practice, it’s best to start with something small. Please share your thoughts in the comments section of this article online and tell us what you plan to incorporate first. If you would like to reach me directly, my email is tom@dentaltown.com.

 
Dentaltown Magazine
September 2025
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