Dental Industry Trends Summary Dec 8 - 14

Overcoming Team Tech Resistance

Resistance to new software or equipment often stems from cognitive overload and a fear of incompetence rather than simple stubbornness. To successfully drive adoption, practice leaders must cultivate psychological safety where mistakes are viewed as a natural part of the learning curve. Normalizing the "beginner mindset" and actively involving team members in the rollout process ensures staff feel supported and capable rather than overwhelmed by change.

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ADA Opposes New HIPAA Cybersecurity Rules

Recent research published in the International Dental Journal indicates that adults undergoing bariatric surgery may face increased risk for dental issues, including gum disease, caries, and halitosis. The study which included human participants and complementary animal models found post-surgery shifts in oral microbial communities along with increased presence of bacteria linked to dental and periodontal disease; in animal models, these shifts were associated with significant alveolar bone loss. The authors emphasize the need for coordinated care between dental providers and bariatric teams to monitor and manage oral-health risks in this growing patient population.

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