Orthotown October 2013 - (Page 24)

continuing education // feature A model for a primary care orthodontic practice Abstract Treatment by Twelves is a method to describe caring for patients with malocclusions of all ages with the express intention of treating to the new aesthetic demands. Based on recent published documents and summaries from American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)-sponsored symposia, Treatment by Twelves provides a way to communicate the proposed orthodontic treatment of patients to both colleagues and patients. Educational Objectives Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to achieve the following: • Identify common goals of an orthodontic and restorative dental practice • Trace the history of arriving at an aesthetic dental and orthodontic practice • List the four biological elements to orthodontic care • List the three major time periods for orthodontic care • Name the common malocclusions treated in each time period • List the common reasons for relapse of orthodontic care Introduction Most orthodontists spend a good amount of time answering questions like “When is the best time to start orthodontic treatment?” or “Is it too early to begin care for my child?” Many feel like parents, patients and dentists have a differing view of the need for an orthodontic evaluation. The American Dental Association, as well as the AAO, encourages the first visit at age seven, but confusion still exists. Furthermore, changes in delivery of orthodontic care have dramatically altered the way many orthodontists practice. For years, most were employed in a sole practitioner business model, depend- by Daniel J. Grob, DDS, MS ing on a solid referral base of dentists and professionals with satisfied patients referring their friends and relatives. Now, the landscape is filled with general dentists, clinics and other business entities offering to provide orthodontic care within their facility. Many young and seasoned orthodontists are hired by others not only improperly trained to understand the requirements of a viable orthodontic practice but ill prepared to invest the time and money to provide the finest in modern orthodontics to the patients. Most of these alternative business models do not understand that delivering orthodontic care, unlike other dental and medical specialties is more of a process than a procedure-based practice. Adopting a philosophy about treatment timing can be the basis for building a successful practice. Not only does it address the issues mentioned, but it also provides the foundation for a successful career that is self-perpetuating. Additionally, it helps to dispel the notion that there is the precise right technique and time for undergoing orthodontic care. A recent editorial by Robert Keim1 emphasizes the need to adopt a new paradigm of orthodontic care based on the “dynamic nature of the changing face over time, rather than a static view, represented by plaster casts on the table.” This new paradigm will require a clear understanding of the needs and basis for orthodontic intervention throughout a patients’ lifetime. The controversy surrounding the initiation and practice of orthodontic care is not new. An article published by Proffit2 summarizing results of research presented at the AAO Symposium on Early Treatment outlines several guidelines for developing a philosophy of patient management. An interview with the late Anthony Gianelly3 summarizes this program director and master clinicians thoughts on the timing of orthodontic 1. 2. 3. Keim, Robert G, The Editors Corner, A Shift in Paradigm, JCO Vol 43 pp613 Proffit, William R, The timing of Early Treatment: An Overview, AJO/DO April 2006 pp s47 Gianelly, Anthony A, Current Topics and Controversies, PCSO Summer 2007, pp33 This print or PDF course is a written self-instructional article with adjunct images and is designated for 1.5 hours of CE credit by Farran Media. Participants will receive verification shortly after Farran Media receives the completed post-test. See instructions on page 31. 24 OCTOBER 2013 // orthotown.com Farran Media is an ADA CERP Recognized provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. http://www.orthotown.com/orthotown/OnlineCE.aspx?action=DETAILS&cid=411 http://www.orthotown.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Orthotown October 2013

Wired for Success: New Patient Workflow in the Digital “Paperless” Office
Orthotown.com Highlights
Lean and Mean Ortho: Cost-saving Measures in an Orthodontic Practice
Phase I Expansion/Retention
Corporate Profile: Ortho Organizers
New Products
Continuing Education: Treatment by Twelves
A Common Sense Approach to Six Percent
Overhead – Friend or Foe?
Ad Index
In Memoriam: Tribute to Dr. Craig Andreiko

Orthotown October 2013