An example of a disruptive business model is the cellular industry. Originally the big phone companies didn’t actively pursue cellular technology because they believed the quality of service wasn’t good enough. But smaller companies ended up taking customers away from the major phone companies because consumer determined that the convenience of cell phones is more important than the quality of the call.

Whether its right or not, I see a similar attitude among consumers of dental care. The service hygienist want to provide is more convenient and “good enough” than waiting hours in a dentist office for a quality observation.

As an outside observer, I suggest that dentist begin embracing this disruptive business model and figuring out how both the hygienist and dentist can profit from it. Hygienist are on to something here.

There are many more examples of “good enough” models that have changed industries. Think of digital music. Finally the record producers got on board.

I can assure these dentists that the standard of care has diminished. I have seen more residual cement causing plaque retention, perio problems, and pain. I believe these assistants who practice for a short time on models, and are usually trained by each other (as I have no knowlege of any expanded functions training programs) are doing more to diminish the standard of care than allowing more access by hygienists, (who are well trained and capable) to perform procedures that could improve the quality of lives and health. I am not blaming the assistants, and in some cases, their fillings are much better than the dentist. However, many are not skilled, or have any dental background other than what they have learned on the job.

I say the dentists (not all) want their cake and the ability to eat it too.

How sad for the unsuspecting public. I think it is a big control issue.

Patricia F. Memmo RDH