At mydentist, we're dedicated to staying at the forefront of modern dentistry, ensuring our professionals are equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to provide exceptional care. As part of our ongoing commitment to innovation, we continuously support dental practices embracing new technologies.
In this episode of Know the Drill, Dale Flanagan, Neil Simpkin and Jess Patel Barnes share how they’re helping practices transition to digital dentistry with the adoption of intraoral scanners.
Supporting the transition to digital dentistry
Dale Flanagan, who plays a central role in the intraoral scanner rollout, begins by outlining the importance of support managers in the adoption process, commenting: "What mydentist has recognised is that after deploying scanners, many practices need more than just training and documentation. They need added assistance."
Dale emphasises that it’s not only about providing the technology but offering ongoing support to ensure its seamless integration into existing workflows. The support managers are described as "intraoral scanner firefighters," always ready to assist practices encountering challenges during the adoption process.
Overcoming reluctance to change
Neil Simpkin discusses the difficulties that arise when trying to encourage some clinicians to embrace new technologies: "That reluctance to change from some areas means it can be hard for those who are willing to embrace it to understand why there’s hesitation," Neil adds.
He highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in overcoming these challenges, stressing the need to approach reluctant clinicians in a way that shows them the tangible benefits of digital tools.
"We do need to accept that resistance is there and take a step back," Neil says. "We need to show clinicians what can be achieved, put that clinical approach in and be on the ground with them."
Neil also believes the key to breaking down resistance is showing clinicians the real, hands-on benefits of digital dentistry. "Sometimes clinicians just need it from another clinician, and that’s where myself, Jess and the rest of the team can really help."
A personalised approach to learning
Jess Patel Barnes, a regional clinical development advisor, shares her approach to supporting clinicians in the Southeast. Her role involves providing tailored, one-on-one support to ensure clinicians are comfortable with their new technology. "I’ve got a scanner, I’ve got models, and we do a lot of click-by-click demonstrations to show clinicians how they can embrace this," Jess explains. She recognises that learning new technology takes time and often requires reassurance.
"For me, gathering the knowledge before diving in has worked really well," Jess says. "There’s a whole host of information available to help you out." She stresses the importance of having accessible resources like webinars and troubleshooting guides, which make the transition to digital dentistry more manageable for busy clinicians.
The journey to building confidence and competence
As the episode draws to a close, Jess offers a motivating message about the journey of adopting new technology. "It’s a journey. You’re not going to pick up a scanner and be proficient straight away," she notes. "You’ve got to go through that journey. We’ve all trained, we’ve all been on this at some level, and this is no different." Jess’s advice is clear: take things one step at a time, and the benefits will come.
Neil echoes this sentiment, reinforcing the need to engage with new technology sooner rather than later. "We can’t maintain the analogue pathway indefinitely. It’s coming. The sooner you engage with it, the quicker you’ll start seeing the benefits."
Dale also encourages clinicians to embrace the technology, urging them not to be afraid. "Just pick up the scanner and scan," he says. The message is simple: digital dentistry is here to stay, and with the right support, clinicians can confidently adapt to the future of dentistry.
A future-focused approach to digital dentistry
Dale, Neil and Jess all agree that digital dentistry is not just about keeping up with trends. It’s about improving patient outcomes, enhancing diagnostics and streamlining workflow efficiency. With the right support, dental professionals can overcome the challenges of adopting new technology and unlock its full potential.
Listen to Know the Drill
All four episodes of Know the Drill are now available to stream on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music. Whether you’re looking for practical career advice, insights into digital dentistry or tips on maintaining a strong work-life balance, this series is here to support you.
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