Digital transformation in orthodontics is a rapidly evolving field. As technology advances, so does an orthodontist’s need to stay ahead of the curve. McKinsey and Company’s recent survey found that many companies are postponing further evolution of their technology organizations. However, investing in these changes will likely pay off in the long run and may be essential for their competitiveness.
At its core, digital transformation in orthodontics is about leveraging technology to improve patient care and outcomes. The resources digital orthodontics offers include anything from using advanced imaging techniques to diagnose and treat patients more accurately to implementing digital tools that streamline the workflow and reduce administrative burden.
The five opportunities from digital orthodontics are:
- Data collection and analysis: Collecting data on patient outcomes, treatment plans, and other relevant information allows practitioners to track progress, identify areas of improvement, and make informed decisions about future treatments. Clinical and business metrics can help deliver data that drives decisions that make an impact.
- Automation: Automation can help streamline processes such as scheduling appointments or ordering supplies. It can also help reduce administrative costs by eliminating manual tasks.
- Digital tools: Digital tools such as patient portals, teledentistry platforms, and online appointment booking systems can make it easier for patients to access care and for practitioners to manage their orthodontic practice more efficiently.
- Artificial intelligence (AI): AI can analyze large amounts of data quickly and accurately, allowing practitioners to make better-informed decisions about patient care. AI can reduce the noise from treatment inputs and enable orthodontists to focus on the most critical aspects of their patient’s orthodontic care.
- Connected devices: Connected devices such as mobile devices, sensors, and wearables can provide real-time data about a patient’s health that can inform treatment decisions or monitor progress over time.
Overall, digital transformation in orthodontics is an important part of staying competitive in today’s rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Investing in these changes will likely pay off in the long run by improving patient care and outcomes while reducing costs associated with administrative tasks.
