Introduction

Dentistry, like many professions, can be slow to adopt change. Why does this happen, and what can be done to encourage innovation? Dr. Jordan Harper shares insights into how comfort zones and traditional practices shape the dental landscape, and how breaking free can lead to transformative progress.

Why Is Dentistry Slow to Embrace Change?

Dentistry, much like other fields, often sticks to what’s tried and true. This resistance to change stems from comfort zones and a preference for familiar methods, even when innovation could bring improvements.

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Key Questions and Answers

1. Why do dentists resist change?
Change can be daunting. Many dentists prefer to rely on methods that have consistently worked, avoiding the perceived risk of adopting new techniques or technologies.

2. Is this resistance to change unique to dentistry?
Not at all. Most professions face this challenge. It’s a natural tendency to stay within a comfort zone, especially when the current system works adequately.

3. How does this affect the dental industry?
Resistance to change can slow the adoption of advancements that could improve patient care, such as digital impressions, CAD/CAM technology, and fluoride alternatives like hydroxyapatite.

4. What can help overcome this resistance?
Education and evidence-based results are key. Demonstrating the benefits of new practices and showing how they enhance outcomes can motivate professionals to embrace innovation.

5. Are there examples of successful changes in dentistry?
Yes, the adoption of implants, digital impressions, and microhydroxyapatite-based toothpaste are prime examples. These innovations have revolutionized how dentists approach patient care.

Conclusion

Change in dentistry may be slow, but it’s possible. Breaking free from comfort zones and exploring new innovations can lead to significant advancements in patient care and the industry at large. Ready to embrace the future of oral care? Discover the latest innovations at enml.com.

Transcript

Why do you feel like the landscape, including obviously dentistry, might be a little bit slower to change? Why, why do you feel like that's a, uh, I think part of it has to do with every profession. I think everyone gets in a rut, they get a comfort zone and they don't want to push the boundaries beyond it.

Right. Um, and so that happens to a lot of us in our, in our careers, you know, and dentists are no different. And we get kind of stuck in that swim lane. We know it works, we know it's been working and let's just keep rolling with it. And you know, it's like change is too hard, you know, okay.