Practice to Practice

Different Strokes

When rotary NiTi files were introduced to endodontics, all the talk focused on their designs and engineering principles behind them; the idea of operator motion as a significant part of the equation was neglected, however. A chip space–based motion such as SSC (Single Stroke and Clean) is a simple addition to the operator’s use of

NiTi rotary files that immediately makes them both more efficient and safer for use. This involves introducing the rotary file in the canal, taking a single bite of dentin circumferentially through one stroke, and then removing the file and cleaning the chip space with an alcohol gauze or other means. This idea of using rotary files like spoons reduces torque and improves safety of NiTi rotary file usage.

Allen Ali Nasseh, DDS, MMSc
Boston, Massachusetts

Go with the Flow

Here’s a tip for adaptation of composites without additional items. When placing composite increments, use an ultrasonic scaler tip (water turned off) and place it into the freshly placed increment. Keep moving it around while on and withdraw (while on). Composite will melt like butter and flow, without need for a commercial instrument to do the same thing. Useful especially for highly-filled composites.

Fred Rueggeberg, DDS
Augusta, Georgia

Home Run or Singles?

Every practitioner likes hitting a home run, or getting the “big case.” But for many of us, those aren’t an everyday occurrence. The best way for dentists to grow and build a practice is slow and steady. Lots of consistent singles will get you much farther than a home run now and again! Those larger cases should be the icing on the cake.

To build a consistently successful practice, you need to treat your patients the way you like to be treated. Be on time, listen, and have compassion. Build a rapport with your patients by remembering little facts about their lives, and addressing them by name when you enter the room. Educate your staff on the importance of helping patients feel relaxed and comfortable in your office. Patients will appreciate your kindness and honesty, which ultimately builds trust.

Dr. Paul Homoly, a certified speaking professional, says that when it comes to any decision, people have “fit issues.” In other words, patients prefer treatments that fit their lifestyle and schedule. By identifying your patient’s “fit issues” you can effectively educate and advise them on a treatment plan that works for them. If your patient is not ready for treatment, all the education in the world will not change their mind.

So be patient, build rapport, take care of immediate problems, hit plenty of singles, and you’ll keep your patients, and their trust, until they are ready to give you that home run.

Frank Kuzmin, DMD
Torrington Dental Care
Torrington, Connecticut

Submit Your Tip and WIN!

Do you have a clever solution for a common problem? Inside Dentistry invites you to share the tips that make your practice run smoothly—ideas for better staff/patient relationships, clinical techniques, organization, and everything in between. You could win a $25 Starbucks gift card and have your tip published in an upcoming issue! Enter your submission of 250 words or less by going to www.surveymonkey.com/s/YH9XRT7 today!