(By Dr. Anand Krishnamurthy, Practo Dental)
The global dental market is expected to reach a whopping $65.23 billion by 2030. And the Indian dentist industry is expected to grow at 10% with around 27,000 dentists joining the workforce every year giving patients many options to choose from. However, the opaque nature of healthcare in India, including dental care leaves patients wondering about how to choose the right dentist for their needs.
Having spent close to three decades in dentistry, here are 4 key things all patients should look for when seeking treatment.
Hygiene & Sanitary Conditions:
A clean environment is crucial for safe dental care. This means everything- from sterilised instruments and surfaces to proper waste disposal. With the prevalence of infectious diseases in the post COVID era, we need to follow strict SOPs for instruments and equipment sterilisation. Look for a clinic that uses things like autoclaves and special sterilisation chambers to ensure everything is disinfected. Furthermore, the proper disposal of bio medical waste is essential to prevent the spread of infections. Dental clinics must have designated areas for the disposal of hazardous materials and follow strict protocols for the safe disposal of waste.
Pain management:
Modern dentistry is all about making your experience as comfortable as possible. It is important to prioritise the patients' needs and understand any anxieties they may have. Techniques like local anaesthesia and nitrous oxide sedation can keep a patient feeling relaxed during procedures. Dental lasers are also a game-changer, reducing pain and discomfort significantly. The use of dental lasers in favour of the classic dental drill has also reduced the pain sensations by 90% for many dental procedures, with minimum discomfort to our patients.
Keeping up with technology:
High-tech equipment can also make a big difference in the treatment. Digital x-rays and scanners provide more accurate diagnoses and allow for minimally invasive procedures. For example, digital imaging systems like CBCT scans and intra-oral scanners allow for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, reducing the need for invasive procedures and minimising the risk of infection. These tools not only improve treatment outcomes but also contribute to a cleaner environment.
AI technology has also made significant progress in dentistry. With the help of AI based dental planning softwares, we can simulate the final smile of our patients even before the inception of the treatment and that helps build confidence of patients towards the final results.
Overall clinic environment:
Today, going to the dentist is more of a reactive approach to pain or discomfort experienced by patients. That's why a friendly and comfortable environment is important. Look for a clinic with a clean and organised waiting area, perhaps with some music or a TV to help you relax. A friendly and professional staff who listens to your concerns is key to a positive experience. This helps calm the patient before any procedure.
A few years ago patients did not have access to any clinic information to help them make the right decision. However, today with digital platforms patients can seek all necessary information about dental clinics. They are also audited for their excellence with details of equipment, patient experience and hygiene and safety thereby committing to the highest standards in dental care.Through this, patients can make informed decisions about their care all through a clinic of a button.
[Disclaimer: The opinions, beliefs, and views expressed by the various authors and forum participants on this website are personal and do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, and views of ABP News Network Pvt Ltd.]