ASO Industry Newsletter - October 2023

Page 1

Isssue 3 | October 2023 Brought to you by the Australian Society of Orthodontists.
TEEN GUARANTEE
INSIGHTS
TO REALITY:
PRACTICE ASOFRE SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF THE PROFESSION ASO ADELAIDE 2024 EXPLORING TECHNIQUE AND TECHNOLOGY
INDUSTRY Newsletter FEATURE INVISALIGN
ORTHOGRAD
FROM DREAM
TIPS FOR LAUNCHING A SUCCESSFUL

WELCOME FROM THE ASO W

The ASO recognises that students and graduates are the future of the profession. It delivers resources and support to help them manage early career challenges. In this edition, we are launching a dedicated section for recent graduates. It includes a guide to help them plan the first steps of starting or acquiring their own practice. We also feature how the ASOFRE has been supporting the future of the profession over the past 60 years.

The ASO is looking forward to welcoming members, industry, and friends to the 29th Australian Orthodontic Congress in Adelaide from the 13 – 17 March next year. Read about how the first in-person Congress in six years is shaping to up to be a dynamic, enjoyable, and insightful CPD event.

Finally, a big thank you to our industry contributors. In this edition, we will be featuring a range of case studies from companies that are at the forefront of the industry.

We hope you enjoy the publication.

Contents Feature Invisalign Teen Guarantee 03 ASO Adelaide 2024 29th Australian Orthodontic Congress 05 Guest Article 3D Printed Appliances 06 OrthoGrad Insights Tips for launching a successful Practice..........14 ASOFRE: Supporting the future of the profession 20 Advertorials Dental Monitoring 09 Henry Schein ....................................................................... 11 For all editorial or advertising enquiries please contact: P (02) 9965 7250 or communications@aso.org.au
elcome to the October 2023 edition of the ASO Industry Newsletter.

FEATURE

Peace of mind for orthodontists with the Invisalign® Teen Guarantee

Whether it’s traditional braces or Invisalign clear aligners, teen compliance can vary widely based on individual personalities, lifestyles, and motivations.

Since Invisalign clear aligners are removable, there are perceptions of a greater responsibility on teens to wear them consistently for the recommended 20–22 hours per day, because of this, parents may sometimes have concerns when choosing between Invisalign treatment or braces for their teen.

However, a recent study focusing on teenagers aged 14–18 undergoing teeth straightening shows a faster adoption of treatment and self-confidence in teens undergoing Invisalign treatment than teens with traditional fixed appliance treatments, such as braces. These findings have important implications for orthodontists and parents choosing the best orthodontic treatment for teens.

Orthodontists can ease parental concerns about Invisalign treatment for teens by addressing perceptions, emphasising digital tracking for compliance including Invisalign’s unique compliance indicators, and highlighting treatment

conveniencewithfeweremergencyvisitsincases wherewiresandbracketsbreak.Invisalignclear alignersareoftenchangedweeklysoconcerns overlostalignersisoftenremediedbyanew alignerasperthetreatmentplan.

Reassuringparentsthatorthodontistsclosely monitorInvisaligntreatmentprogressdigitallyvia theMyInvisalignappcombinedwithin-person appointmentsensuresthatanyissuesarepromptly addressed,andadjustmentsaremadetokeeptheir teen’streatmentontrack.Theappalsoservesasa visualaidtotrackthealigner’sweartimeproviding bothorthodontistsandpatientswithatangible waytoassesstreatmentcompliance.

Attheendofthedayparentsmaystillbehesitant aboutInvisaligntreatmentfortheirteen.Tohelp youovercomeparent’sconcerns,AlignTechnology Inc.offersorthodontiststheInvisalignTeen GuaranteePromotionuntil31December2023. SpeakwithyourInvisalignPracticeDevelopment Managercall1800468472oremail anz@aligntech.comtolearnmoreabouttheTeen GuaranteePromotionandhowwecanhelp.

Termsandconditionsapply.

www.aso.org.au | 3
FEATURE
1. Sharma R, Drummond R, Wiltshire W, Schroth R, Lekic M, Bertone M, Tate R. Quality of life in an adolescent orthodontic population. Angle Orthod. 2021 Nov 1;91(6):718-724. doi: 10.2319/062820-592.1. PMID: 34260709; PMCID: PMC8549557. 2. Terms and Conditions Apply, please discuss with your Invisalign representative for more details.
4 | Industry Newsletter

29th Australian Orthodontic Congress

Adelaide Convention Centre

On behalf of the Organising Committee, I am delighted to invite you to register now for the 29th Australian Orthodontic Congress to be held in the beautiful city of Adelaide, South Australia from 13-17 March 2024. This will be the first face-to-face Australian Congress in 6 years, making it a very special event.

The Congress theme will be Technique and Technology. We anticipate that this Congress will be a dynamic, enjoyable and successful meeting.

Our overseas invited speakers—Dr Willy Dayan, Prof Padhraig Fleming, Dr Simon Graf, Dr Björn Ludwig, and Dr Julia von Bremen lead a dynamic program, supported by our line of exciting national speakers.

I look forward to welcoming you in person to the 29th Australian Orthodontic Congress in 2024.

13-17 March 2024

asoadelaide2024.com.au REGISTER NOW �
Dr Willy Dayan Prof Padhraig Fleming Dr Björn Ludwig Dr Julia von Bremen Dr Simon Graf

3D-PRINTED APPLIANCES

Emeritus Professor Craig Dreyer The University of Adelaide

Following its introduction in 2003, customised fixed appliances have become increasingly used and applied for the successful treatment of many complex malocclusions. 1-3 Customised appliances have made lingual orthodontics easier and have the advantages of higher bonding strength due to extended bracket bases and easier rebonding of failed brackets.4,5

While there are several proprietary brands of customised fixed appliances, there are disadvantages related to cost and a delayed start-up due to the delivery time. However, the growing popularity of orthodontic software and 3-dimensional (3D) designing freeware has enabled clinicians to create customised appliances, either produced by a local dental laboratory or by inoffice 3D metal printing. The manufacturing time is therefore shortened, the need for appliance re-orders avoided, and the accompanying laboratory costs reduced, which renders treatment using customised brackets more cost-effective and versatile.

Using a selective laser melting technique, nickelchromium, cobalt-chromium or titanium alloys may be chosen to fabricate 3D-printed metal attachments. When using titanium alloys, anodising may be incorporated to manipulate the oxide layer on the bracket surface for colour variation. In addition, from a digital library, any stock bracket may be paired with a customised base to provide an appliance specific for a particular patient. It is for the clinician to decide whether the metals, alternative to the usual stainless steel, will fulfil the mechanical properties required for appliance use.

The potential limitation of metal 3D printing includes the high initial costs associated with printer acquisition. Printing inaccuracy is an additional challenge, especially in bracket slot precision, compared to stock brackets manufactured by high-precision industrial processes. The build angle during the 3D printing of customised brackets should be set at nearly 90° to ensure that all parts of the bracket are adequately supported and accurately printed. This might not be the case when prescription brackets are printed. Printing supports should not be attached to the bonding bases to maintain an accurate fit between these areas and the tooth surfaces. Incorrect bracket orientation during 3D printing might result in some parts lacking support and being inaccurately printed.

(Continue on Page 8)

6 | Industry Newsletter
GUEST ARTICLE

3D-PRINTED APPLIANCES (CONT.)

Therefore, the accuracy of the bracket slot must be verified using a full-size arch wire to identify any imperfections and brackets that do not allow complete wire engagement, discarded. However, due to low material consumption, multiple copies of each bracket could be simultaneously printed to offset printing inaccuracy.

3D-printed brackets typically exhibit higher roughness compared to cast brackets, and so a further limitation is often the difficulty in bracket polishing because of their small size and the lack of industrial polishing machines which poses a challenge in the finishing process.

Despite the current limitations and with further technological advancement, the prospect of 3D-printed customised appliances is promising. Enhancements in orthodontic software to incorporate a customised design feature, will facilitate the design process and save time. Furthermore, artificial intelligence may be applied to assist in the orthodontic setup and appliance design process. In the future, the decreasing cost of 3D metal printers will likely increase the uptake of in-office implementation of the technique.

References

1. Wiechmann D, Rummel V, Thalheim A, et al. Customized brackets and archwires for lingual orthodontic treat ment. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2003;124:593-9.

2. Chen YH, Gao Y, He JJ, et al. Digital lingual appliance combined with micro-screws for the treatment of a skeletal bimaxillary protrusion and ‘gummy’ smile. Aust Orthod J 3923;39:96108.

3. Pies S, Wilmes B, Vasudavan S. Congenitally absent maxillary lateral incisors. A case report illustrating the use of a Mesialslider and a customised lingual appliance. Aust Orthod J 3918;34:103-16.

4. Sha HN, Choi SH, Yu HS, et al. Debonding force and shear bond strength of an array of CAD/ CAM-based customized orthodontic brackets, placed by indirect bonding- An In Vitro study. PLoS One 2018;13:e0202952.

5. Sung JW, Kwon TY, Kyung HM. Debonding forces of three different customized bases of a lingual bracket system. Korean J Orthod 2013;43:235-41.

Case Study:

Can DentalMonitoring data improve clinical outcomes? Introduction

Since implementing DentalMonitoring in 2020, we have seen firsthand how our practice has improved with keeping patients on track, catching emergencies and having no surprises when a patient walks in for an appointment. I’ve always had a knack for all things tech, so when I was asked to participate in the pilot program for DM Insights, I was curious and excited to see what it would bring to practice operations. DM Insights is a unique data analysis platform with the potential to bridge the data gap in the industry. The platform is designed for those already using DentalMonitoring’s remote monitoring software, which provides automated reports on a patient’s oral condition based on scans patients send between visits to the practice.

Board-certified orthodontist Dr. Barry Benton is one of the youngest practicing orthodontists to serve as a diplomat on the American Board of Orthodontics.

With his father, they run 2 practices in rural Alabama and monitor more than 1,200 patients with DentalMonitoring.

Using DM Insights, we have been able to dive into clinical data to make minor adjustments for major clinical gains. This carries the potential to maximize practice efficiency with improved treatment outcomes and a more standardized treatment process. By focusing on just one data point, we were able to easily remedy a clinical inefficiency in the bracket bonding process.

High Rates of Bracket Breakage at a Specific Tooth.

The pilot program took place over a 4-month period beginning in Spring 2022. We use self-ligating bracket systems and treat a majority of braces patients — around 800. About 2/3 of our patients are teens. They use the DentalMonitoring app on their smartphone along with the specialized ScanBox pro hardware to regularly send intraoral scans to the practice.

DentalMonitoring’s software and AI is capable of tracking more than 130 intraoral observations based on oral health, tooth movement, fixed appliances activity and removable appliances activity. An automated scan report is then sent to the practice with customizable observations doctors can select to track.

DM Insights has been absolutely instrumental in evaluating this data to identify areas of improvement.

DM Insights analyzes all patient scan data retroactively, providing us with data from the very start of a patient’s treatment. As we looked at our practice data, we noticed a statistical outlier: Over a 1-year period, the lower right 6 tooth (LR6) experienced double the rate of bracket debonding of any other tooth, with 51 occurrences detected (Figure 1). The amount of bracket breakage of the remaining 27 teeth varied from 8 to 34 occurrences, averaging at 15 occurrences.

Reviewing this data, we revisited our technique for the bonding process. What we found was fascinating: something as simple as repositioning the chair we sat in allowed us to perform the procedure from a better angle and apply just the right amount of pressure to ensure the LR6 was bonding well.

Over time, breakage rates decreased across the board, and the LR6 breakage rate was reduced to fall in line with normal levels based on the average debonding rates of the other teeth.

Conclusion

We took advantage of clinical data provided by DM Insights to identify a high rate of bracket breakage that would have otherwise gone unnoticed and untreated. This individual case highlights how data-backed analysis can lead to improved clinical outcomes across the board. By using both DentalMonitoring and DM Insights to transform our workflow, we have optimized our in-person, saving on average 3-4 appointments per patient, improved the quality of care and enhanced training.

Smarter Orthodontics

www.aso.org.au | 9
Figure 1 Figure 2
This content hosts feedback from patients, healthcare professionals or experts using our products. Those feedbacks are provided by DM users contributing exclusively from their individual experience and use of our solutions. Dental Monitoring SAS does not guarantee the accuracy and the exhaustiveness of these experiences and, therefore, shall not be held liable for any direct or indirect damages suffered by users of this content or by third parties and resulting from their experiences and feedbacks. Products availability, claims and regulatory status may differ across countries depending on local regulations. Contact your local representative for further information. AD_MON_IW_001_01_rd_H_AU_en Learn More

A CLEAR ADVANTAGE

A CLEAR ADVANTAGE

THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR A BEAUTIFUL SMILE

THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR A BEAUTIFUL SMILE

From the clear, comfortable aligners to the robust treatment visualisation software, Reveal Clear

When Dr. David Ostreicher first heard about Reveal Clear Aligners from Henry Schein Orthodontics, he was looking for an alternative to the system he’d been using for years. Patients often complained about the number of attachments needed for their cases, so Reveal’s promise of minimal attachments piqued his interest. And with the aligners coming from a company he trusted, it made sense to give them a try

Clear Aligners from Henry Schein Orthodontics, he was looking for an alternative to the system he’d been using for years. Patients often complained about the number of attachments needed for their cases, so Reveal’s promise of minimal attachments piqued his interest. And with the aligners coming from a company he trusted, it made sense to give them a try. his patients—fewer attachments among them. They’re also very comfortable. Reveal appliances are smooth rather than scalloped to help eliminate irritation to the patient’s gums or lips. The aligners

He’s glad he did. As one of the first clinicians to implement Reveal aligners about five years ago, Dr. Ostreicher has seen the many benefits they bring his patients—fewer attachments among them. They’re also very comfortable. Reveal appliances are smooth rather than scalloped to help eliminate irritation to the patient’s gums or lips. The aligners are designed to fit precisely and to minimize slipping, offering added comfort and delivering predictable outcomes with minimal attachments and appointments required.

slipping, offering added comfort and delivering predictable outcomes with minimal attachments and appointments required.

Then there’s the clarity. Reveal aligners, made of proprietary ClearWear material, have a shininess to them that others simply don’t—a feature Dr. Ostreicher’s patients really like. They’re also stain resistant, meaning patients can drink wine and tea, for example, without having to remove the aligners, making it easier to achieve that 22-hour wear time.

Then there’s the clarity. Reveal aligners, made of proprietary ClearWear material, have a shininess to them that others simply don’t—a feature Dr. Ostreicher’s patients really like. They’re also stain resistant, meaning patients can drink wine and tea, for example, without having to remove the aligners, making it easier to achieve that 22-hour wear time.

“If you have an aligner system that can produce the same results but with fewer attachments, a

“If you have an aligner system that can produce the same results but with fewer attachments, a clearer aligner, and a smooth finish, your patients will be more likely to accept treatment and to comply,” Dr. Ostreicher said. “The main reason you don’t get results is patient cooperation. With other aligners, the thing patients complain the most about is the attachments. These aligners also don’t poke patients because they’re not scalloped. I get better cooperation with Reveal than I do with other products.”

will be more likely to accept treatment and to comply,” Dr. Ostreicher said. “The main reason you don’t get results is patient cooperation. With other aligners, the thing patients complain the most about is the attachments. These aligners also don’t poke patients because they’re not scalloped. I get better cooperation with Reveal than I do with other products.”

Like Dr. Ostreicher, many dentists are switching to Reveal aligners or turning to them as they integrate clear aligner therapy into their practice for the first time. With plenty of support from Henry Schein, these aligners are easy to add to any office and, as more and more patients seek out this treatment, represent an opportunity for practice growth. Offering comfortable, predictable, and aesthetic appliances gives offices an edge, not to mention that it helps to win over patients who aren’t sure they want to go forward with treatment.

Like Dr. Ostreicher, many dentists are switching to Reveal aligners or turning to them as they integrate time. With plenty of support from Henry Schein, more and more patients seek out this treatment, represent an opportunity for practice growth. Offering comfortable, predictable, and aesthetic

that it helps to win over patients who aren’t sure they want to go forward with treatment.

Once you start taking cases, the Studio Pro 4.0 web-based software makes it easy to visualise and modify treatment plans for the full range of mild, moderate, and comprehensive aligner treatments. The software’s features enable superimposition, advanced tooth movements, and arch adjustment, to name a few improvements. And an enhanced user interface enables clinicians to visualise and modify treatment plans no matter their skill level, allowing more dentists to offer this in-demand service.

“I like the slider where I can see at each stage where the patient will be, as well as have the ability to adjust teeth by myself,” Dr. Ostreicher said. “The models look much more realistic, which helps me visualise what the actual patient would look like. I also like that the software is totally internet based. I don’t need to download any software to update it, and I can open it on my computer from anywhere I want.”

Once you start taking cases, the Studio Pro 4.0 web-based software makes it easy to visualise and modify treatment plans for the full range of mild, moderate, and comprehensive aligner treatments. The software’s features enable superimposition, advanced tooth movements, and arch adjustment, to name a few improvements. And an enhanced user interface enables clinicians to visualise and modify treatment plans no matter their skill level, allowing more dentists to offer this in-demand service.

“I like the slider where I can see at each stage where the patient will be, as well as have the ability to adjust teeth by myself,” Dr. Ostreicher said. “The models look much more realistic, which helps me visualise what the actual patient would look like. I also like that the software is totally internet based. I don’t need to download any software to update it, and I can open it on my computer from anywhere I want.”

The aligner’s manufacturing technology, combined with robust visualisation software, provides clinicians with a complete solution that yields predictable results.

“I get better cooperation with Reveal than I do with other products.”

The aligner’s manufacturing technology, combined with robust visualisation software, provides clinicians with a complete solution that yields predictable results.

“I get better cooperation with Reveal than I do with other products.”

10 | Industry Newsletter
From the clear, comfortable aligners to the robust treatment visualisation software, Reveal Clear Aligners from Henry Schein Orthodontics can benefit practice and patients alike.

2: Perform IPR before aligner 2 0.2: amount of IPR

2: Perform IPR before aligner 2 0.2: amount of IPR

2: Perform IPR before aligner 2 0.2: amount of IPR

Case in Point

Case in Point

Case in Point

THE PATIENT

THE PATIENT

THE PATIENT

Ronit, a 27-year-old male, had orthodontic treatment as a teenager (lower incisor extraction case).

Ronit, a 27-year-old male, had orthodontic treatment as a teenager (lower incisor extraction case).

Ronit, a 27-year-old male, had orthodontic treatment as a teenager (lower incisor extraction case).

He presented to Dr. Ostreicher’s office with Class I, deep bite, upper and lower anterior crowding, and a tipped-in posterior segment leading to a narrow smile corridor.

He presented to Dr. Ostreicher’s office with Class I, deep bite, upper and lower anterior crowding, and a tipped-in posterior segment leading to a narrow smile corridor.

with Class I, deep bite, upper and lower anterior crowding, and a tipped-in posterior segment leading to a narrow smile corridor.

TREATMENT

TREATMENT

Reveal aligners with mild interproximal reduction were prescribed. Treatment was completed in one year, using 22 upper and lower aligners, and resulted in significant bite opening and a broader smile corridor.

Reveal aligners with mild interproximal reduction were prescribed. Treatment was completed in one year, using 22 upper and lower aligners, and resulted in significant bite opening and a broader smile corridor.

TREATMENT

No attachments or refinements were necessary.

No attachments or refinements were necessary.

Reveal aligners with mild interproximal reduction were prescribed. Treatment was completed in one year, using 22 upper and lower aligners, and broader smile corridor. necessary.

R CLICK HERE

DAVID OSTREICHER DDS, MS, MPH Levittown, New York

R

DAVID OSTREICHER

DDS, MS, MPH

Levittown, New York

www.aso.org.au | 11
BOOK CLICK HERE
CASE
DAVID OSTREICHER DDS, MS, MPH
Levittown, New York CASE BOOK

Power your practice with the latest innovations inspired by doctors.

SPARK APPROVER WEB

SPARK APPROVER WEB

Use powerful Spark Approver software features in and out of the office with convenient, secure web-based access.

Use powerful Spark Approver software features in and out of the office with convenient, secure web-based access.

OPTIMIZED OPEN PLATFORM WITH DEXIS

IOS INTEGRATION

OPTIMIZED OPEN PLATFORM WITH DEXIS IOS INTEGRATION

Easily submit aligners with one-click captures of patient data, automatic case creation, and quick access to STL files.

Easily submit aligners with one-click captures of patient data, automatic case creation, and quick access to STL files.

GAME - CHANGING CLINICAL AND WORKFLOW

UPDATES

we’re

GAME - CHANGING CLINICAL AND WORKFLOW

UPDATES

Enjoy enhanced control and versatility with Flexible Material Choice, Integrated Hook Updates and Real-Time Approval with Passive Aligners Editing Tool.

Enjoy enhanced control and versatility with Flexible Material Choice, Integrated Hook Updates and Real-Time Approval with Passive Aligners Editing Tool.

Explore Spark Aligner’s complete clinical and workflow enhancements at: bit.ly/3YCI0i1

Dr. Jeff The Jeff manufacturer
treating “Ormco doctor-inspired And
to
that
– Dr.
Power your practice with the latest innovations inspired by doctors.
Clinicians
release. insider, fact that
us thrilled
Welcome to OrthoGrad Insights, an insert dedicated to supporting new orthodontists achieve their professional goals. Are you thinking about starting your own practice but don’t know where to begin? We have put together tips, advice and resources to help you research and plan. OrthoGrad Insights
ASO’s Recent Graduate Guide *Data on file. Summers is paid consultant for Ormco. opinions expressed are those of doctor Jeff Summers. Ormco is a medical device and does not dispense medical advice. Clinicians should use their own judgment when their patients. Patient results may vary. “Ormco has a legacy of continuous, doctor-inspired innovation. it shows in this new release. As an Ormco insider, I can attest to the that Spark is listening us doctors and I am thrilled with the direction we’re going together.” Dr.
MKT-23-1085
The
Jeff Summers 1

FROM DREAM TO REALITY: TIPS FOR LAUNCHING A SUCCESSFUL PRACTICE

PLANNING FOR FINANCIAL SECURITY

Nick Pride & Jon Cousins

Ord Minnett

Ord Minnett is a leading Australian wealth management group, incorporating full-service stockbroking, financial planning and funds management. ords.com.au

For orthodontists starting their own practice or acquiring an existing practice it is important to have an effective plan in place, because with the proper plan, youcannotonlyensurefinancialsecurity,but alsobuildsustainingwealththatcanlastfor generations.

Aspartofthatplan,herearethreesimplestepsto considertoday:

Cashflow is King: Cashflow is the lifeblood of any businesssaving3-6months’runningexpensesasa cashbuffercanhelpsmoothoutrevenueshiftsand largeoneoffcosts.

ProtectyourGreatestAsset(You):Structuring yourbusinesscorrectlycansaveyoutime,riskand money.Specialistadviceshouldbesoughtonthe rightfit,beitthesimplicityofasoletrader structure,totheflexibilityandprotectionoffered fromacompanyorpartnership.

It’salsocriticalthatsufficientinsuranceisheld tax-efficientlytoprotectyourwealthandincome againstmajorillness,injuryordisablement.

Securingtomorrownow:Oftenoverlookedfor being“toocomplex”,receivingprofessionaladvice onsupercanhelpsecureacomfortablepassive incomestreamforthefuturewhilereducingyour existingsignificanttaxburden Overtime,more sophisticatedstrategiesincludingpotentially purchasingcommercialpropertythroughyourown superfundfromwhichtorunyourpracticecan alsobeexamined.

Thisarticleisproducedbyanexternalthirdparty(notthe ASO)forguidancepurposeonlyandisnotasubstitute forfinancialadvice.Financialadviceshouldbesought forindividualcircumstances.Fortailoredadviceforyour Practice,pleaseemailjcousins@ords.com.auorphone02 82166616

14 | Industry Newsletter
OrthoGrad Insights

NEW EMPLOYER BASICS

ClinLegal is Australia’s first and only provider of digital employment law solutions, designed exclusively for dentists and doctors.

If you are starting a practice, you will probably become an employer. Here are some basics to get you started. The Fair Work Act, including its National Employment Standards and the Health Professionals and Support Services Award will likely apply. You or your Manager should have good working knowledge of them. Practically all your staff except dentists/orthodontists and some marketing/executive roles will come under the Award, including OHTs and Hygienists. Make sure you classify their pay correctly under the Award to avoid facing an underpayment claim.

Full-time employees’ (38 hours each week) hours can be average over 4 weeks, subject to some exceptions like unreasonable overtime. Part timers will receive overtime if they exceed their regular set hours, in most cases. To make it easy to align the team, manage issues and reduce risk, you should have a Staff Manual outlining your vision, values and policies, and properly induct new staff using them.

To state the obvious, you should have written employment contracts and position descriptions otherwise staff won’t know what you expect, may not be prepared to take on different tasks, and you will have difficulty in establishing compliance. It’s best to delegate management of staff to someone trained in the area who has good soft skills, patience, empathy, communication skills and leadership qualities as this will influence the culture.

To minimise risk, keep written file notes of conversations about contentious issues, like you do for patients. In our experience most disputes arise due to confusion about roles and expectations, poor communications such as responding emotionally or apathetically, avoiding rather than proactively dealing with issues, and not managing strategically. At this moment, disgruntled staff then investigate non-compliance as a way to resolve their grievances which takes an emotional and financial toll.

This article is produced by an external third party (not the ASO) for guidance purpose only and is not a substitute for legal advice. Legal advice should be sought for individual circumstances. For tailored advice for your Practice, please email info@clinlegal.com.au.

www.aso.org.au | 15
Let us help you get started today! FLAME_3M7685 10/23 3M Australia Pty Limited Building A, 1 Rivett Rd North Ryde, NSW 2113 Ph: 1300 363 484 3M.com.au/ortho Make all the right moves. 3M Graduate Discount and Finance Plan. A power move for your new practice. Contact your local 3M Rep or Alex Keen (3M Inside Sales Rep) on 0412 576 609 or via email at akeen@3m.com for more information. Incremental moves can lead to amazing outcomes – and that’s why more orthodontists are making the move to an all-in-one treatment planning solution for aligners, brackets and combination treatment. 3M, “3M Science. Applied to Life.” and Clarity are trademarks of 3M. © 3M 2023. All rights reserved. Move purposefully using a two-material aligner system for ultimate control during treatment. 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners Flex + Force Move efficiently with a tray system that accurately bonds a full arch of brackets – all at once. 3M™ Digital Bonding Move seamlessly with digital treatment planning for aligners and/or brackets, all in one place. 3M™ Oral Care Portal Learn more 3M™ Digital Bonding Learn more 3M™ Clarity™ Aligners

IT SYSTEMS

SensITive focuses primarily on supporting Orthodontic Practices throughout Australia. With over 20 years’ experience with some of the largest practices and an excellent working relationship with Carestream Dental Australia we can guide you in IT.

sensitiveit.com.au

For recent graduates there are two options –Start your own practice or buy/begin with an existing practice.

For IT systems let’s first deal with scenario two –buying an existing practice. Ask the following:

1. What practice management system is used and why was it chosen?

2. Do those reasons still seem valid?

3. Are there better alternatives?

4. What makes the alternative better? Compile the pros/cons and then compare objectively.

5. What is the cost of changing (e.g. computer hardware, software, training and practice downtime)?

What about starting your own new practice?

Again, ask the following:

1. What are my peers using and why? If you have access to colleagues, ask them, visit their practices with a focus on practice management software and ask them what they love/hate about it and why they haven’t changed.

2. Is depth of reporting and customisation important?

3. Do you prefer MacOS or Windows?

Consider the complexity of use and ease of training. Australian based support/data sovereignty may also be important factors.

There are many factors to consider, and while salespeople can assist, it is always wise to do your own research.

This article is produced by an external third party (not the ASO) for guidance purpose only and is not a substitute for IT advice. For tailored advice for your Practice consult your IT provider or email info@sensitiveit.com.au

OrthoGrad Insights

BUILDING COMMUNITY AND SUCCESS: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA

After completing all my specialist orthodontic training in the UK I moved to Australia to work as an associate in Melbourne CBD. An opportunity arose to acquire an established orthodontic practice in regional Victoria. Subsequently we have opened a start-up clinic in an additional regional location. I can honestly say the decision has been completely fulfilling with opportunities on many levels.

Community impact: regional orthodontic clinics can significantly enhance the oral health and selfesteem of residents who might otherwise have limited access to such services, fostering goodwill and loyalty within the community.

Lower competition: With fewer orthodontic practices in regional areas, there is less competition, offering an opportunity to establish your clinic as the go-to provider for orthodontic care.

Personalised care: Smaller communities often allow for more personalised and attentive care, which can enhance patient satisfaction and wordof-mouth referrals.

Digital and remote monitoring options: Leveraging digital technology can help provide a level of care that previously was not possible such as virtual consultations, digital bonding/aligners and virtual monitoring.

Resource accessibility: Procuring orthodontic equipment, supplies, and qualified staff in more remote areas can be more challenging and may require additional logistical efforts.

Growth corridors: Choose your regional location based on where the State or Territory Governments are planning for high economic and social growth - this will ensure population growth to drive practice growth.

OrthoGrad Insights

MARKET RESEARCH: UNDERSTANDING YOUR LOCAL MARKET

Market research is crucial when it comes to understanding the potential and long-term viability of starting, buying into your current workplace or purchasing a practice that is unknown to you. Market research involves understanding the market conditions of the practice’s location, competitors, current and future customers (patients), and market trends.

A good starting point is information and data that has already been collected and analysed by others, including government statistics and industry reports. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) website provides a wide range of statistics to help you understand the demographic trends and projections of a particular location. For example, you can look at the key statistics of an area including population, demographics and income.

You can also gather market intelligence about your competitors by researching the websites of other practices within a specific geographic area, such as 5–10 Km radius of your intended practice. Look at

the services they provide and marketing strategies they apply (including their social media presence).

If you are working for the practice you want to buy, you may already have access to current customer information but if you are starting from scratch or looking at acquiring an unknow practice make sure to gather sufficient information to understand the needs of your customer and to identify trends and future opportunities. For example, if the research shows that there is projected growth in young families moving to the area in the next 12 months due to new housing developments, there might be an opportunity to increase the number of customers by focusing on targeting new families in the area.

Once you have collected and reviewed all the relevant local market information you will be in a better position to make an informed decision and take the next step in your journey of becoming a practice owner.

ASO Members have access to a range of free educational and marketing materials and resources to educate the public on orthodontic treatment and to promote their practice.

Learn More

SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF THE PROFESSION

The ASO Foundation for Research and Education (ASOFRE) is committed to supporting orthodontic research and education and empowering the next generation of practitioners. The Foundation supports post-graduate and postdoctoral students by providing funding for:

Scientific and clinical research that explores methods for improved orthodontic treatment and care. Postgraduate orthodontic students across Australia receive $2000 per year to pursue orthodontic research. These funds are provided to universities to be administered to the students by the heads of departments. Postdoctoral research students can apply directly to the ASOFRE for larger grants.

Accredited orthodontic education programs

Australia has five accredited university orthodontic programs at Sydney University, Melbourne University, University of Queensland, University of Adelaide and University of Western Australia.

External Education Grants - In 2020, the Foundation introduced an External Education Grant of $1000 for each postgraduate student entering the 2nd year of their program. This is to help with expenses related to their education including registration and travel fees to conferences/meetings.

Awards - to encourage academic and research excellence, the ASOFRE offers the following awards: Elsdon Storey Award, Milton R Sims Award, P Raymond Begg Award, AB Orthodontics Fellowship and various poster awards.

As a way of fostering the education of present and future orthodontic practitioners, the Foundation also stages the biannual ‘Foundation Meetings’ between Congress years.

This years’ co-located Foundation Meeting with the Australian and New Zealand Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (ANZAOMS), on May 19-20, was an overwhelming success.

Prior to the 2023 Foundation Meeting, the ASOFRE also held a Postgraduate Meeting for Australasian orthodontic students. The scientific program was delivered by faculty staff and students from all Australasian orthodontic schools and featured lectures by the Jan Taylor Lecturer and Keynote speaker Professor Steven J. Lindauer. Some of the ASOFRE achievements include:

• Funding 35+ special research projects between 2007-2023

• Supporting 75 Post-graduate students as of June 2023

• Attracting 320+ registrations at this year’s Foundation Meeting in Sydney

The ASOFRE is profoundly grateful for the support of industry partners, including long standing sponsor Henry Schein, and esteemed members, whose generous support has enabled the Foundation to continue to provide the means for future research and advancement in orthodontics.

20 | Industry Newsletter OrthoGrad Insights

ORTHOGRAD RESOURCES

AB Fellowship Grant

AB Orthodontics proudly supports newly graduated orthodontists through the annual AB Orthodontics Fellowship grant awarded to an orthodontist or third-year postgraduate student. If you are seeking training from an overseas Centre of Excellence, apply online via the ASOFRE Committee before June 30, 2024.

This on-demand webinar covers a range of topics to guide practitioners on their journey to setting up their own practice including finance, design and fit out, practice management solutions and marketing. Watch now

StartUp Support

In addition to the Fellowship grant, AB Orthodontics supports orthodontists opening their first practices. Their StartUp offer helps to offset new financial burdens by offering significant discounts and trading terms. To enquire, contact AB Orthodontics at 03 9650 2526 or sales@ortho.com.au.

ASO/Henry Schein partnership benefits

ASO members are entitled to generous product discounts and may also be entitled to cash rebates through Henry Schein360 loyalty Program. Read more. The loyalty program also offers a range of Business Solutions deals and discounts that might be suitable for recent graduates looking a starting or acquiring their own practice. Download Henry Schein360 benefit brochure.

Henry Schein Webinar Series - Dental Practice Setup

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.