Business as Unusual
Inside Dentistry provides the latest in endodontics, implantology, periodontics, and more, with in-depth articles, expert videos, and top industry insights.
October 1, 2024
Volume 20, Issue 10, October 2024
Page(s): p. 2
These are unusual times for dentists. For some, they are lucrative times. But for many others, they are trying times. A convergence of factors stemming from the still lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as those stemming from the effects of inflation, the rise of dental service organizations, changes in patient populations and expectations, and other sources has resulted in a maelstrom of financial and operating pressures on dental practices, from staffing shortages and lower patient volume to stagnating insurance reimbursements and the skyrocketing cost of supplies and equipment-all of which are having negative effects on profitability.
This month's CE article addresses the provision of language assistance services for patients with limited English proficiency. For practices that receive federal funds, this is required by law, but all dental practices should strive to ensure the linguistic and cultural appropriateness of their patient communications. Other articles in this issue explore topics such as how artificial intelligence is helping to foster patient trust and improve care delivery; how listening to patients to incorporate their values into treatment presentations can improve case acceptance; how to provide customized care for patients with developmental disabilities, severe dental anxiety, and other unique needs in traditional practice settings; and more. I hope you enjoy the issue!
Robert C. Margeas, DDS
Editor-in-Chief, Inside Dentistry
Private Practice
Des Moines, Iowa
Adjunct Professor
Department of Operative Dentistry
University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
robert.margeas@conexiant.com
