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Patient education Advancements in technology cost money, which means dentists who incorporate MID need to raise their fees. It’s important for patients to understand why they’re paying more, and that understanding comes from education. Blodgett sends a newsletter to his patients every three to four months and reserves the back page to introduce the newest technology to become part of his practice. Patients always know what’s available and how technologies can benefit their oral health. Beyond the newsletter, Blodgett also uses CASEY and the Smile Channel. These digital education media explain different technologies and philosophies found in the practice. “Education creates value,” Blodgett says. “When people have value for what we offer, treating their oral health issues becomes a want, not a need—and people are far more interested in buying what they want.” The team approach
Working together, Blodgett and his team created a practice that provides comprehensive, predictable, profitable care. “We function as a cohesive unit viewed as a true team, where there is very little division between the front office and the back office,” Blodgett says. “We are all in this together.” Looking ahead In the next 20 to 30 years, Blodgett says he expects to see a huge shift in the way dentistry is perceived, taught and experienced, as more dentists see the advantages of a minimally invasive approach. “Technologies are available right now that can help us treat our patients in a far more conservative fashion than in the past,” Blodgett says. “And the technologies to come should only improve our ability to help manage our patients’ oral health.” Dr. Kelly Blodgett lectures extensively about MID throughout the West Coast and Canada. The World Congress of Minimally Invasive Dentistry named Blodgett Clinician of the Year in 2006. He was one of the first Portland dentists to integrate numerous MID technologies into his practice.
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