MC_squaredJL via Reddit:

I think an AI interface could help with the problem. Specific issues:

• New patients: Not all adult NP need to be scheduled 1 hour with Dr and then 1 hour in hygiene which is normal protocol. We gave them a flowchart and list of questions to determine if they should be scheduled as above or for 90 minutes with the hygienist. Literally 3 questions. I have a 17yo new patient scheduled as an adult. She could have been scheduled 1 hour in hygiene.
• We have 1 intraoral scanner for 2 docs. We have color coded the appointments that need the scanner and told them how to offset the appointment so assistants do not need the scanner at the same time. My partner and I have crown preps scheduled at the exact same time today. Twice.
• Last week it was root canals at the same time. Also equipment needed at the same time.
• They do not get the concept of scheduling for production. I’ve literally had days that my first 3 hours were $0 because they scheduled crown seats, denture appointments, surgical follow-ups.

Reading the comments, it looks like the underlying issue is lack of SOP training. However, despite a lot of training and meetings, it’s understandable that it’s difficult to apply protocols in the moment. Especially because receptionists will lack the understanding of why it’s important to separate appointments so that equipment doesn’t have to be shared.

Hopeful-Extent-693:

Once you allow yourself to “see it” dentistry is not difficult. Divid it up in three groups, two are infection, decay and gum disease and the third is mechanical, i.e. the bite. Examine for decay, is it through the enamel, is it large, small, how would you have it fixed in your own mouth. Second infection is gum disease, is it gingivitis, periodontitis, ALWAYS start with a cleaning or SRP. Don’t make it so hard on yourself!!!

The important question you should be asking your 7-11 year old patients.  

The early detection of impacted canines is important to minimise future orthodontic treatment. For patients aged 7 to 11 years, all practitioners should assess the position of the unerupted permanent canines as part of the initial examination. If these teeth cannot be palpated buccally, apical to the deciduous canine, a screening OPG is recommended. The OPG can confirm the presence of these teeth as well as their position.  

The three key factors to assess regarding position are:

• The degree of overlap of the crown of the canine over the root of the lateral incisor

• The angulation of the canine in relation to a perpendicular line to the midline

• The vertical height from the occlusal plane.

In most cases, if the tooth is not palpable and is overlapping the lateral root and/or has a steep angulation, early removal of the deciduous canine can assist in normalising the eruption of the permanent canine. Space maintenance is not required for this in the upper arch. This approach also applies to the lower arch; however, space maintenance is required in the lower arch.

Dr James Yacyshyn:

Ultimately, everybody in this conversation agreed that there was value in learning and mastering foundational knowledge. Foundational knowledge was not viewed as just a preliminary step, but viewed as a cornerstone of professional growth and development. However, how we defended this point varied.