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Dental Technology: Choosing Wisely

June 25th, 2009 · 6 Comments

dentla-chair-and-equipment1Purchasing new technology? Exercise your right to choose…
When you’re in the market to purchase new technology for your dental practice, it can be tempting to buy equipment from the first rep who contacts you. This can be a costly mistake. It’s worth the extra effort to educate yourself about the equipment that’s out there and make an informed decision about what will work best for your practice. Although it may require a little more work up front, it will pay off in the long run with a higher return on investment.
Tom Terronez of Medix Dental has put together some tips to consider while you are making your purchasing decision:

  • Think about your future plans for technology in your practice. It’s important to determine how the new technology will integrate with your existing equipment and future plans. This will help limit compatibility issues that may arise.
  • Remember that lower initial cost doesn’t not necessarily mean lower overall cost. Realize that if you buy lower-end equipment, you will likely pay more in the long term dealing with performance issues. Lower-end equipment will also become obsolete faster.
  • Opt for products that have a multi-year warranty incorporated into the initial price. That way you’ll be covered if any issues arise.
  • Talk to other dentists who are using the technology you are considering. Ask them about the pros and cons. This type of insight can be invaluable while you’re narrowing down your list.
  • Realize that you don’t have to buy computers through your software provider. Many dentists do this because they falsely believe they will only have to call one support center with computer issues. In reality, most software providers have separate support departments for software and hardware issues.
  • It’s easy to get sucked into purchasing all your technology, equipment and supplies from one company. But keep in mind that not all dental practices are the same, and this cookie cutter approach doesn’t always work. It will also limit your flexibility when it comes to other vendors’ products.
  • Ask your vendor if the new technology is compatible with your existing equipment. Go beyond a yes or no answer. Determine how it’s compatible – is it a seamless integration or was it made compatible through a bridge?
  • Try and get your hands on the technology you are considering, so you can try it out for yourself – this is particularly relevant for equipment you may be using in your day-to-day activities with patients.

It is well worth the effort to take some time to educate yourself about the technology choices in the market. This will help minimize your technology headaches and ensure that your practice is running as smoothly as possible.

Tags: Technology

6 responses so far ↓

  • 1 Dental Thornhill // Jun 27, 2009 at 10:41 pm

    Staying upto date with technology is important in ensuring proper treatment for patients.

  • 2 Dental Thornhill // Jun 27, 2009 at 10:41 pm

    Staying upto date with technology is important in ensuring proper treatment for patients.

  • 3 Pete Volk // Jun 27, 2009 at 11:18 pm

    Remember…much of today’s dental technology isn’t compatible with Vista!

  • 4 Pete Volk // Jun 27, 2009 at 11:18 pm

    Remember…much of today’s dental technology isn’t compatible with Vista!

  • 5 Virginia Dentists // Jul 4, 2009 at 2:35 pm

    Costs can also be an issue for a doctor when choosing the proper equipment. But maybe it is worth the investment if patients are pleased and will remain loyal to that specific doctor.

  • 6 Virginia Dentists // Jul 4, 2009 at 2:35 pm

    Costs can also be an issue for a doctor when choosing the proper equipment. But maybe it is worth the investment if patients are pleased and will remain loyal to that specific doctor.

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