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There is no one method for speed dentistry. Dentists must identify a variety
of faster techniques, try them out to see what works and what methods are
effective, and then perfect them. They must execute a little faster here, a little
faster there, until they see substantially improved results.
BE HUMANE
Let’s face it: Everything in dentistry is not about time and
money. You may confront a situation in which you must
take more time to do a procedure or talk to a patient. If
necessary, you must sacrifice cold efficiency for good
humanity. However, you must keep these time sinks to a
minimum or direct them to that portion of the day when
you can take a little more time. Sometimes a lonely elderly
patient wants to tell you a joke that goes on forever, or
worse, talk about their divorce or operation. Do your best
without insulting the patient. Devise techniques for such
situations. Just keep it controlled.
PROBLEMS
Speed dentistry, like any endeavor, has advantages and
disadvantages. If you are going to speed up, you will use
more energy. If you speed up gradually, your stamina will
increase, but you may be more tired by the end of the day.
That is the cost of speed dentistry. Of course, if you do two
days’ worth of patients in one day, you can take another day
off to rest and recover with no net financial loss. Decide
what you are going to do with that extra time and money.
If the way you decide to use it is productive — great. If it is
self-absorbed and abusive, such as spending your newfound
time at the local bar, then perhaps you should go back to
the office. Think about it. Speed dentistry is not for the
lazy dentist.
START NOW
So where do you start? As previously suggested, start by
realizing how speed dentistry will help you, your patients
and your practice. Get some idea of how long it takes to do
a procedure or see a patient. Start with exams, cleanings
and restorative procedures. Using a timer (or a group of
timers), identify how long it takes to do a procedure. Make
some changes. Time yourself again. See if you can shave off
some seconds or maybe even a minute or two. Use quicker
materials and techniques. Keep track of the time. Perfect
your technique. Watch for your drop-off point. You may
become a fast dentist or a good dentist, but what you really
want to strive for is being a fast, good dentist. This is an art
form. Try it and good luck! CM
Sections of this article come from the book “Speed Dentistry,” by E.J. Neiburger,
DDS. Andent Publishing, 1000 North Ave., Waukegan, IL 60085. Copies are available
at www.andent.net.
Dr. Ellis Neiburger is a general practitioner in Waukegan, Ill. Contact him at 847-244-
0292 or eneiburger@comcast.net.
© 2012 by E. Neiburger. First publication rights granted to Chairside magazine.
Speed Dentistry: Fast Is Better — Up to a Point61