By Beatriz E. Terry, DDS, MS
January is a common time to plan for the New Year or beyond and, as may be expected, many in our field are considering what dentistry may look like in the future. They are using data and analytics to fashion predictions, which can be valuable. However, I firmly believe that our future is not pre-determined; it is in our own hands.
As president of the Florida Dental Association, I see lots of opportunities for dentists to thrive. We have an incredible inventory of professionals in our state. Many Florida dentists have formed personal networks with one another as classmates, peers or through their involvement with organized dentistry. These networks are great for sharing ideas, learning from each other and even socializing. I would suggest that they’re also excellent for sharing thoughts and ideas about the direction dentistry is moving as well as which trends are temporary and which will affect our trajectory. We should all be discussing ways we can impact and shape the change we know is coming.
Do young dentists need mentors? Is there a way to increase dental access and reimbursement rates for underserved populations? Can we continue to educate the public about the importance of oral health and having a dental home? Will changing or new regulations impact how we practice? There are lots of questions. We can find the answers together.
It is evident that our profession in general and organized dentistry specifically are facing challenges. Some that come immediately to mind are: incorporation of new and developing technologies; issues finding and keeping talented team members; and navigating third party payer issues. There are people who view consolidation as an answer. Yes, consolidation via small group practices, large group practices or DSOs is one method for achieving scale and certain efficiencies but it can also present its own frustrations such as lack of control and a loss of independence.
As a practicing periodontist for more than 30 years, I am proud that I have been able to build and own a solo practice that is thriving. I know of many other dentists in my area, throughout Florida and other places in the nation who are also achieving their versions of solo practitioner success. I believe that private practice is still a very viable model. This may not be the choice for everyone and, as a leader of the FDA, I view the diversity of practice—individual versus group, modality, style, etc.—as something positive for dentistry. There are many options for those graduating from schools of dentistry or for dentists who are navigating life and career changes. It is also excellent for our patients and the public to have choices.
No matter the practice type, let’s work to shape the future of dentistry together.
President of the Florida Dental Association, Dr. Terry is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and Dental Implant Surgery. Her practice, Miami Implant Perio, is located in Miami.
Beyond the Bite 