An Introduction

COMPUTERS IN DENTISTRY From Skeptic to NERD

By: Lawrence F. Emmott, DDS
 
Just a few years ago I didn't know much about computers. What is more, I didn't want to know much about computers. And what is even more, I didn't think I should have to know much about computers.

 

Now all that has changed. I am a self-confessed dental computer techno nerd. Computers are one of my main hobbies, I spend daily time on the Internet, and I can talk RAM, ROM and Baud rate with the best of them and my office staff always knows that if I'm not chair side they can find me at the computer. I'm even developing calluses on my right hand from excessive mousing. 

 

My journey from skeptic to techno nerd started in 1993 when I bought a home computer for my children. I soon learned that computers could do so much more than I'd ever imagined. I started on a year long search for a dental computer management system that was using the potential I envisioned and didn't just "keep the books". I finally chose Dentrix and now have fourteen networked computers running advanced management systems, digital radiographs as well as various other programs through out the office. I am very excited about the future of computers in dentistry and see a fundamental change beginning to take place in the way dentists use computers in the office.

 

That fundamental change is that computers are being used for more than just book keeping and are making their way into the treatment rooms. This basic shift in use and vision for computers goes by a number of names, "POT" (point of treatment) stations "frontdesklessness" and the  "paperless office". Computers aren't just for sending bills they are multi media education and communication centers. Some of these ideas seem pretty extreme at first, but once you understand why and how, the progression is inevitable, and it will transform the way we manage our dental practices forever.

 

Even though I am very involved with computers my primary role is that of a dentist. I am a practicing latex-fingered general dentist. I know what goes on every day in a dental office. My dental management experience and my interest in technology have led to a number of unexpected opportunities, which are coming together into a Comprehensive System to help my profession learn about and use technology. This includes Seminars, Users Groups, Newsletters, Books and Articles, Internet Groups, Consulting, Training, Technology References, Hardware, Room Design and more.

 

All of this is designed to show regular dentists how to use advanced technology and sophisticated practice management techniques in an effective manner. A great computer system won't overcome a bad dental office manager any more than a great hand piece will make you a good dentist. Training and developing the people in the office, including the dentist, to use advanced technology effectively is at least as important as the hardware and software components. Dental office computer systems with chair side terminals are not just gimmicks using fancy toys but they will increase efficiency, save money and quickly pay for themselves.

 

Computers in the treatment rooms, frontdesklessness, the paperless office, digital images, CAD CAM, information management and much more are all coming to dentistry. And they are going to come because they will make the way we practice better. Just like the high-speed air turbine hand piece changed dentistry forever; new dental computer systems will change how we practice forever. Some dentists will hold back and fear change or even resent it. Others will embrace new technology and grow with it. However no matter what your attitude is one thing is certain:

 

"The Future is Coming and it Will be Amazing"