Formula One racing involves high-speed racing and brief pit stops to service the car. The pit crew must stabilize the vehicle, change the tires, adjust the aerodynamics, and safely release the racecar. All of it is done in two seconds. This proves that speed and efficiency do not have to compromise results. After all, a formula one pit crew deals with life and death. If they make a mistake, the driver risks losing his life. Thus, speed does not necessarily mean quality suffers.
In orthodontic practice, time is a constant factor in treatment time and keeping on time for appointments. Orthodontic teams work with more patient volume than many other dental specialties, and maintaining a busy schedule is the norm. The challenge we face is gaining efficiency, reducing chair time, and maintaining quality. Hence, the pit crew is a great example of efficiency, and we can consider some takeaways from a pit crew.
Teamwork
The pit crew is not about the driver. It is a group of highly trained individuals functioning as a single unit. Everyone is critical, from the driver to the guy changing the tire. In orthodontics, there is no department more important than the other. True, TCs gain case acceptance, but the clinical team must deliver the care we promise. In addition, scheduling team members keep the appointments scheduled with a productive day. Therefore, doctors require the support of the whole team to make the magic happen.
Everyone has a role
A well-choreographed orthodontic team can deliver an amazing patient experience with outstanding results. Pit crews have grown in efficiency by dividing labor and splitting tasks into highly choreographed steps. Consider highly specialized members to focus on one critical step. Then, arrange these people and steps into an effective system that drives incredible performance. Orthodontic teams where everyone knows their role and excels at it become incredibly productive.
Train more
No effective pit crew jumps in and “wings it.” Training, practice, and preparation are critical for high performance. Therefore, train, train, and train again to forge that effective team. Robyn Sharma has a great quote on the Spartan warrior creed: “Sweat more in training. Bleed less in war.” Proper and consistent training produces legendary teams.
Better technology
Pit crews have gained an advantage as technology has evolved. For instance, from highly effective wheel guns to multi-gigabit WiFi technology to transmit F1 car data during the pit stop. Many advances have reduced the time for pit stops by more than 90% over the past few decades. Not only that but Formula 1 systems and innovations are helping many other industries.
Technology and innovations in orthodontic care have also reduced treatment times, improved patient outcomes, and helped orthodontic practices gain a tremendous amount of efficiency.
