In today’s ever-evolving economic climate, remaining adaptable is crucial. Khushbu Shah, DDS, a dentist at AHS Family Health Center Clinic in Chicago, emphasizes the importance of mental well-being, flexibility, and embracing new technology to navigate economic changes.

Dr. Shah and her colleagues at AHS Family Health Center are committed to addressing the impact of inflation on both patients and clinicians. They strive to provide affordable materials and care to support patients' oral healthcare needs.

In this economic climate, what are the stresses and hardships facing oral care? 

From a provider's perspective, dental care faces several stresses and challenges. One significant issue is the increased financial strain on health centers, which leads to heightened expectations for patient production. Since health centers are reimbursed based on the number of patients seen, they must often see a greater number of patients to maintain financial stability.

Additionally, issues with insurance reimbursement and claim denials can force patients to delay necessary dental procedures.

Another major challenge is staffing shortages. The ongoing post-COVID effects have resulted in a market demand for higher wages for auxiliary dental staff. This places stress on providers, as the pressure to meet quotas and production goals can lead to burnout among dental professionals. This burnout reduces job satisfaction and can potentially impact patient outcomes.

How is this situation affecting clinicians in terms of patient care, and what is your perspective on its impact on the office? 

We see a majority of low-income patients in our offices who often face the difficult choice between paying for healthcare and covering basic necessities like food and rent. Due to rising inflation, many patients are experiencing financial hardships, which results in delayed or canceled treatments because of cost concerns. Some individuals may only seek emergency care rather than preventive care, which is less profitable in the long run. Additionally, insurance claims are frequently denied, leaving patients financially stretched.

However, despite this economic climate, some patients still expect high-quality procedures at lower costs, creating tension between providers and patients. Offices are experiencing greater demands and unmet needs, particularly among vulnerable populations such as seniors, veterans, and younger low-income individuals who are disproportionately affected by rising costs. These challenges are adding additional stress to dental professionals, who are already grappling with higher overhead costs and heavier administrative burdens.

What helpful tips do you recommend for combating these challenges? 

Adaptability: The ability to pivot when things don’t go as planned. As providers, we may not be able to provide the most expensive treatment option for the patient due to financial constraints, however, there are always good, affordable alternatives to consider. For instance, a few years ago, when OMNICHROMA was introduced at all our sites, it significantly improved patient satisfaction. If a patient could not afford veneers or crowns at the time, OMNICHROMA composites offered incredible esthetics, resulting in increased patient satisfaction and retention.

Focus on self-care: Provider burnout can have lasting mental and physical effects on us. It’s crucial to know when to take a break, and just as airlines advise, “put your mask on first, before helping others”. Taking care of our mind and body is essential for sustaining a long-term career in the dental profession.

Leveraging Technology: Using new tools and materials to enhance workflows and provide efficiency. Digital imaging, scanners and 3D printing are all going to reduce chair time, increase patient satisfaction, and ultimately elevate the standard of care.

Talking about materials, since we introduced the single-shade OMNICHROMA  composite family to all our locations, we observed a significant reduction in material waste. There was no longer a need to use multiple composite carpules to match tooth shades. This change not only lowered the costs associated with inventory management, since fewer shades need to be stocked, but also reduced overhead expense. Furthermore, it simplified our operations, ultimately leading to more affordable care for patients in the long run. 
Added to it, the efficiency in shade matching and the reduced need for adjustments or repairs can lead to quicker turnaround times, allowing us to treat more patients within the same timeframe, which positively impacts revenue. 

How does OMNICHROMA provide value to your patients? 

Plenty!  A great example involves a 48-year-old male, who presented for a limited oral exam. While he had multiple dental issues, his primary focus was fixing his "broken front tooth," tooth #9. It quickly became clear to me that this patient had been delaying dental care for several years due to the lack of dental insurance and financial constraints. Fortunately, he applied for and was approved for Medicaid. His wife shared that his FIRST priority was to restore his front tooth.

I was in awe of the esthetic results I was able to achieve with OMNICHROMA on this case, especially considering the extensive decay and multiple discolorations he had on tooth #9 (see pictures) . At the end of the appointment, when the patient saw his reflection in the mirror, he literally screamed, “Whoa! Which one was the broken one?”

Cases like this truly make my day!

Finally, the economic challenges in the dental industry require creative solutions and adaptability from both providers and patients. From increased patient volume to dealing with the realities of insurance claim denials and staff shortages, dentists are forced to think outside the box to ensure patient care. As Dr. Khushbu Shah and her team have demonstrated, maintaining a focus on mental wellbeing, embracing technology, and staying flexible are key strategies to overcoming financial pressures. While the road ahead may be challenging, these strategies can help dental professionals maintain a high standard of care while adapting to the economic landscape.