What are the benefits of adding orthodontics into your general practice?

Adding orthodontic services to a general dental practice can offer several benefits, enhancing the overall patient experience and contributing to practice growth.

Here are some potential advantages:

1. Comprehensive patient care

Benefit: Offering orthodontic services allows for more comprehensive patient care within the same practice. Patients can receive a broader range of dental services without the need for external referrals.

2. Increased revenue streams

Benefit: Orthodontic treatments can be financially rewarding. Adding orthodontic services creates an additional revenue stream for the practice, potentially boosting overall financial performance.

3. Enhanced patient retention

Benefit: Providing orthodontic services in-house can increase patient loyalty. Patients may be more likely to stay with a practice that offers a full spectrum of dental services, including orthodontics.

4. Competitive advantage

Benefit: Offering orthodontic services can set a practice apart from competitors. It po-sitions the practice as a one-stop-shop for dental needs, attracting patients seeking convenience and comprehensive care.

5. Improved case management

Benefit: Managing orthodontic cases in-house allows for better coordination of care. The dental team can seamlessly integrate orthodontic treatments with other dental procedures, providing an holistic approach to oral health.

6. Enhanced practice reputation

Benefit: A practice that incorporates orthodontic services may gain a reputation for being progressive and forward-thinking. This positive image can attract new patients and build trust within the community.

7. Optimised scheduling and efficiency

Benefit: Having orthodontic services with-in the practice streamlines scheduling and coordination of appointments. It improves overall practice efficiency by reducing the need for patients to visit multiple locations for different treatments.

8. Personalised treatment plans

Benefit: Offering orthodontic services allows for the creation of personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. This individualised approach can lead to higher patient satisfaction and better treatment outcomes.

9. Increased patient referrals

Benefit: Satisfied orthodontic patients are likely to refer friends and family to the practice, contributing to a broader patient base. Word-of-mouth referrals can be a powerful marketing tool.

10. Educational opportunities for staff

Benefit: Integrating orthodontic services provides educational opportunities for the dental team. Ongoing training and skill development contribute to professional growth and a more versatile team.

11. Adapting to market demand

Benefit: With the increasing demand for orthodontic treatments, incorporating these services allows the practice to meet patient needs and stay relevant in a competitive market.

12. Opportunity for practice differentiation

Benefit: Offering orthodontic services can be a unique selling point for the practice. It differentiates the practice in the market and attracts patients seeking a comprehensive dental solution.

Dr Geoff Hall says "it's important for a dental practice to carefully evaluate the potential benefits and challenges before adding orthodontic services. Proper planning, investment in training and ongoing commitment to excellence are key factors in maximising the advantages of incorporating orthodontics into a general practice."

The OrthoED Institute offers a range of course options for studying orthodontics. The flagship course is the 2-year Mini Masters program which is delivered as nine modules over two years and is hosted by myth-busting orthodontist, Dr Geoff Hall. The program includes pre-course reading material, theory, practicals, case examples, treatment planning sessions, troubleshooting, hands on components, full case support over 2 years as well as a plethora of post course resources.