No one likes change. It’s difficult to adapt to something unfamiliar and new—especially if you’re comfortable with doing things the way they’ve always been done. But resistance to change means an inability to adapt. Instead of digging in and getting steamrolled, recognize when there’s an opportunity to embrace change and all the benefits that come with it.
The title of this post comes from an old quote by author Steward Brand: “Once a new technology rolls over you, if you’re not part of the steamroller, you’re part of the road.” It’s a quote that’s stuck with me ever since I heard it, because it perfectly encapsulates my feelings about change. So many endodontists resist or fear change, but this field is one that’s ever-changing thanks to education and innovation. Brand’s quote about technology couldn’t be more relevant.
There’s no better example than the GentleWave Procedure. This is technology that has the power to streamline efficiency, cutting root canal procedure times in half. Yet, so many endos stick to traditional approaches. Many even avoid looking into GentleWave, simply because they’re resistant to change or technology.
The result? They’re stuck doing what they’ve always done, limited by the same parameters they’ve always fought against. They can’t work faster or do more, which limits everything from free time to income. They’re stuck, and they’ll eventually get steamrolled.
Are you exploring non-instrumented endodontics?
If you’re the type of person who’s resistant to change or intimidated by new tech, it’s okay. You’re not alone. Most endodontists I work with have some level of discomfort when it comes to exploring non-instrumented tech. They range from “I’m worried about moving away from what I know” to the more dug-in “this won’t be able to deliver the same results.” No matter where you fall on the spectrum, it’s important to look at what happens when the rubber meets the road.
Using GentleWave technology and non-instrumented endodontics, endos are able to dramatically reduce treatment times—and producing a more successful cleaning. The efficiency and efficacy of the newer technology surpasses expectations on all fronts.
It doesn’t take long for many endos to see that technology has its merits, and the benefits that come with embracing it show up almost immediately. Shorter treatment times mean more treatments per day, which means more income and the opportunities that come with it. Or, shorter treatment times mean shorter days and the freedom that follows an open schedule.
“If it’s isn’t broke, don’t fix it”
While we’re on the topic of idioms, this is a popular one I hear from endodontists. While consistency is great, antiquation isn’t. That is to say, keep doing what you’re good at until a better solution comes along. For most endos, technique isn’t the issue: technology is.
Endodontists get stuck in the “if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” mentality and stick to standard root canal treatments. New non-instrumented tech like GentleWave has paved the way for a more efficient, elevated approach to root canals, as opposed to traditional means. Given the opportunity to deliver the same (or better) results to patients in a fraction of the time… why wouldn’t you at least investigate the alternative?
For most endos, it’s important to put fear or hubris aside. There’s nothing wrong with your technique or your ability to perform a traditional root canal. The fact of the matter is that the technology available to you has changed, and it’s in your best interest to adopt it.
Don’t get flattened by change
It’s easy to keep doing things the way you’ve always done them. It’s easy to ignore change. And, it’s easy to convince yourself that change is bad. Unfortunately, as history shows us consistently, change is necessary and transformative. Those who embrace it succeed; those who resist it often fall victim to it.
Getting stuck in an old, traditional mindset limits your productivity and results. Broadening your approach, being open to innovation and being teachable on new technology opens the door to betterment. Learning new concepts and techniques helps you become part of the change—and, more important, makes sure you’re not crushed behind by it.
I see technology as the means to efficiency. And, like Steward Brand, I believe that technology can be a steamroller for those that resist it. I also know that embracing new technology is difficult—especially if you’re comfortable in your ways. It’s why many practices choose to hire me as a consultant. They know they need to change, but often struggle with that first step. It’s my job to make sure you don’t get flattened by change—and instead, climb aboard the steamroller as it paves a new path to practice efficiency.
If you’d like to have a chat about what improved clinical efficiency could look like in your practice, please schedule a call.