Trends In Dental Practice And Coaching Long-Term Solutions Vs Short-Term Fixes with Melinda Heryford

In this episode of the Ultimate Dental Podcast, Dr. David Moffetand Melinda Heryford discuss the evolving landscape of dental practice and coaching post-COVID. They explore trends such as the consolidation of practices, the importance of patient engagement, and the need for effective communication within dental teams.Melinda shares insights on streamlining practice management by focusing on key systems and accountability, emphasizing the role of the clinical team in patient care. The conversation highlights the significance of comprehensive diagnosis and the necessity of fostering trust with patients to enhance their overall health and dental experience.In this conversation, David Moffet and Melinda Heryford discuss the critical aspects of dental health management, focusing on the importance of understanding vulnerabilities in dental health, the significance of case acceptance, and the necessity of tracking progress for better patient outcomes. They emphasise the role of effective communication in navigating patient decisions and the need for long-term solutions over short-term fixes. The discussion also highlights the power of visual communication in inspiring patients to make healthier choices and the importance of a supportive system in dental practices.What you will learn:[01:20] Introduction and Welcome[03:07] Trends in Dental Practice and Coaching[06:47] Patient Engagement and Communication[11:58] Streamlining Practice Management[16:12] The Role of the Clinical Team[20:07] Understanding Patient Trust and Health[24:10] The Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis[27:24] Accountability in Dental Practices[34:56] Understanding Vulnerabilities in Dental Health[36:20] The Importance of Case Acceptance[38:55] Tracking Progress for Better Patient Outcomes[41:19] Navigating Patient Decisions and Treatment Options[44:17] The Role of Communication in Patient Care[47:29] Long-Term Solutions vs. Short-Term Fixes[51:21] Inspiring Patients for Better Health Choices[55:09] The Power of Visual Communication in DentistryTakeaways Change in dental practices post-COVID is significant. New practitioners are buying fee-for-service practices. Patient engagement is crucial for successful outcomes. Streamlining systems can improve practice management. Effective communication is key to patient trust. The clinical team plays a vital role in patient care. Patients need to hear information multiple times to understand. Accountability systems are essential for practice efficiency. Understanding the oral-systemic link enhances patient care. Prejudging patients can hinder effective treatment discussions. Understanding vulnerabilities in dental health is crucial. Case acceptance is a measurable metric for dental practices. Tracking progress helps improve patient outcomes. Effective communication is key to patient care. Patients often need guidance in making treatment decisions. Long-term solutions should be prioritised over quick fixes. Visual aids can significantly enhance patient understanding. It's essential to inspire patients to take charge of their health. Dentists should not presume what patients can afford. Creating a supportive system in dental practices is vital.Sound Bites "There's change from COVID." "We're here to serve, absolutely, right?" "We cut those 44 systems down to six." "Patients need to hear it seven times.' "Dentistry is a team sport." "It's all connected." "It's not your responsibility to prejudge." "We are looking for change." "It's a crack. What are you vulnerable to?" "Always, always, always tell them." "We want our patients to keep their teeth." "Pictures are worth a thousand words."