CATEGORY 60 AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST WWW.PROFDENT.COM.AU MintDrops & BerryDrops Australia’s favourite chairside mouthrinse Available flavours: MintDrops, BerryDrops & Alcohol Free MintDrops As we move into 2025, the dental profession is transforming, shaped by rapid technological advancements, evolving patient expectations, and shifting industry dynamics. These changes present both challenges and opportunities, requiring professionals to stay informed and adaptable. Technology in dentistry Digital dentistry continues to evolve, with AI-powered diagnostics, 3D printing, and CAD/CAM systems becoming essential. AI enhances treatment planning, early diagnosis, and orthodontics through selfservice solutions. Practices must adapt to leverage these innovations, streamlining operations, improving patient outcomes, and increasing efficiencies in recordkeeping and appointment management. Despite automation, human expertise remains vital. As technology simplifies processes, industry knowledge, mentorship, and collaboration are key to success. Ongoing education is essential as AI rapidly reshapes the face of dentistry. Sustainability in dentistry Sustainability is a growing priority. Industry leaders advocate for reducing single-use plastics, improving energy efficiency, and adopting solar panels and water conservation. Some practices are integrating laser technology to enhance hygiene while minimising waste. Balancing sustainability with sterilisation and infection control remains essential. Surveys, including one by Credabl, confirm that practitioners and patients increasingly prioritise sustainable choices. Workforce challenges Recruiting and retaining skilled professionals is a major challenge. Demand for services continues to rise, yet workforce shortages remain. Retaining staff requires investment in training, development, and workplace culture. Upskilling dental nurses and technicians, I feel, is crucial. Expanding career pathways and study opportunities for dental assistants aids retention. Infection control training, traditionally focused on dentists, must also be for support staff. Practices that build strong teams through mentorship and career growth will build resilient businesses. Community, well-being, and professional support Beyond clinical work, dentistry’s pressures impact mental well-being. Many professionals seek support through networks, mentorship, and professional communities. Strong professional networks also play a critical role in business success. A thriving practice requires expertise beyond clinical skills – financial planning, regulatory guidance, and business strategy are essential. The Grow Community offers its members access to industry experts in finance, training, insurance, legal services,marketing, technology and more. Leveraging these resources helps practitioners manage risk, make informed decisions, and ensure sustainable growth. Looking ahead The dental profession must embrace adaptability, innovation, and collaboration. The most successful practices will integrate advanced technologies while prioritising sustainability, patient care, and professional development. AI will not solve every challenge but will act as a powerful tool in improving efficiencies. Every dental professional faces unique challenges, and success lies in balancing technology, sustainability, and professional growth. By cultivating strong partnerships and staying informed, dental professionals can not only navigate industry changes but thrive in an evolving landscape. u Cultivating strong partnerships From Sandy Constanti, Senior Finance Specialist at Credabl INSIGHT 2025 Sandy Constanti Sandy Constanti is a Senior Finance Specialist at Credabl and an advocate of the Grow Community, with a deep understanding of the dental industry that spans 35 years. She works closely with dental professionals to support their financial needs and help them navigate growth in a changing landscape.
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