Dentistry has never stood still. The instruments we use, the technology available to us, and even the way we run our practices continue to evolve. As we head into a new year, however, I think the pace of change makes this a particularly exciting time to be a dentist.
That doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges. In this issue’s annual Trends article, Roger Levin, DDS, addresses some of the economic realities facing practices, including rising costs, reimbursement pressures, and an ongoing staffing shortage. Those headwinds are very real. After 40 years in practice, though, I remain optimistic. Dentistry has continued to provide me with a rewarding career, both personally and financially, and I believe tremendous opportunities remain for the next generation.
Technology will be an important part of that future. Advances in imaging, artificial intelligence, and digital workflows are giving us information we simply didn’t have before. I don’t need AI to make a diagnosis for me, but I welcome another set of eyes that can help identify something earlier. Better information can help us make better decisions for our patients.
What I especially like about this year’s Trends article is the range of perspectives. We hear from experts in general dentistry, endodontics, dental hygiene, dental technology, and practice management. We all bring different expertise to patient care, and the more effectively dentists, specialists, hygienists, laboratory professionals, and other members of the dental team work together, the stronger our profession becomes.
This issue also explores a technology that caught my attention personally: cryogenic topical anesthesia. I’ve always taken pride in giving patients comfortable injections. The idea of rapidly cooling the mucosa before an injection as another way to reduce discomfort is intriguing, and I’m interested in trying it myself.
There will always be new challenges in dentistry. There will also be new technologies, new knowledge, and new opportunities to serve our patients better. If we remain willing to learn, adapt, and work together, I believe the future of our profession is very bright.
