A Workflow is a series of steps to complete a project. It has a beginning and end, and each action flows into the next to predictably achieve the desired result. In orthodontics, we have several workflows that are routine to us. For example, when bonding brackets, this clinical workflow includes cleaning the enamel, etching, priming the surface, composite application, and buttering the bracket to placement and cure. Each of these steps is critical for the outcome and flows to each other in an organized fashion. Practices with the lowest bond failure rates leverage the best workflows to achieve successful bonding appointments predictably.
With digital workflows, we can leverage technology to create greater efficiency and less waste. A digital workflow takes all the physical steps and moves them into a computerized process that is not physically bound nor constricted by many rules of the physical world. We shift time, location, and performance into different levers. We can use cloud computing, processing power, AI, and automation to handle routine and mundane tasks while lifting geographic and location-specific challenges.
Step 1 to setup digital workflow
When you consider going digital, the first step is the evaluate your current workflow and audit what is currently in place. A review of existing systems and processes will allow your team to determine what has an opportunity for improvement and where you can integrate a digital process into your current workflow. Most orthodontic practices have the greatest chance to start digital workflows by fully implementing intra-oral scanning. Scanning is the gateway to all digital systems in the market since that digitizes patient data into 3D file data that leads to treatment presentations, CAD treatment planning, and appliance fabrication.
Step 2
The next step would be to prioritize where your team intends to go digital and outline each workflow opportunity. Focus on the priority workflow that will lead to the most significant benefit. Assign the key stakeholders and assign team members to improve the digital workflow. Learn each setup and regroup to improve your process.
Step 3
Once you implement digital workflows in practice, improving your communication and feedback loop is critical. Integrate communication tools to leverage digital platforms like Slack or project management tools like Asana to collaborate better and facilitate digital changes.
Step 4
Optimize, automate and augment your digital transformation. Once streamlined, the digital workflow should open opportunities to decrease the orthodontic team’s busyness and gain productivity. Digital workflows allow us to gather data and best practices and leverage automation to take your digital work to the next level. AI tools, data feedback, and even simple automation are critical investments in your digital infrastructure to facilitate the augmented orthodontic workflow.
