HOW TO DEAL WITH THE NEW ECONOMY

[drmithila]

 Consider becoming certified in intravenous (IV) sedation. 

This attracts the “dental phobics” who can have everything completed more comfortably while sedated. The combination of implant skills and IV sedation certification is very appealing to those who may be dental phobics. Check the certification requirements in your state.

What about people who want their amalgam fillings replaced? 
There is a whole segment of the population who believe the old dental fillings of amalgam are toxic and causing them a wide assortment of problems. Regardless of your personal feelings and the science behind this topic, there are people who want perfectly good fillings to be replaced. Can you do that? How would you ethically position yourself as the “go-to” dentist to serve this segment of the population? Networking with chiropractors, naturopathic physicians, health food stores, health journals, and blog sites might be a consideration. Some dentists avoid this without even trying by saying “these people have crazy ideas and the scientific literature does not support their beliefs!” The question I ask, “are all your present patients perfectly sane now?” You decide whether or not you can (or should) help these patients.

Another area you can become skilled is the very broad subject of pain. 
You are in a position to learn much about occlusion and temporomandibular joint disorder with the associated headaches and spasms. This is an area where you can become an expert. There is much literature to review and many classes available to take. There is no pat answer for every patient and that can create the challenge and ignite your passion to learn more. Learning to work with the medical community is a must. The majority of pain patients begin with their internist and work their way up to the neurologist, with each level trying different medicines and methods. Take the courses and find the right neurologist who understands how you can help their patients still in pain and how you can help them. It is all about networking and referral sources.

Emerging evidence indicates new treatments for periodontal disease that are amazing. 
The baby boomer population is very concerned about keeping their teeth. Wouldn’t it be an attraction to your practice if you had the skills, equipment and desire to help them keep their teeth? With the use of lasers, periodontal pockets are being treated with positive results. There is even evidence of bone stimulation and growth. Your hygienist can help you diagnose the levels of periodontal disease and even do preparatory work. In some states, hygienists can actually treat patients with a laser