Three dentists recently shared with Becker's the challenges that have arisen for them in the dental industry over the past year.
Note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: What is the biggest challenge your practice is facing today that you didn't have last year?
Dani Benyaminy, DDS. Dr. Dani Benyaminy (Los Angeles): The biggest hurdle in my practice currently is hiring a full-time hygienist. I have noticed a trend towards more temp work as it allows the hygienist to be more flexible and in charge of their own schedule versus being committed to an office. I also believe hygienists prefer temp work as it allows them accountability. This affects the office in terms of continuing ready care, and most importantly, development of the patient hygienist relationship.
Myron Bromberg, DDS. Myron Bromberg Inc (Reseda, Calif.): Consistently, 10 percent of scheduled patients daily cancel due to perceived COVID-19 or COVID-19-related conditions. Problems with dental insurance carriers are still the number one problem, as they have been for years.
Duc Tang, DDS. Promenade Center for Dentistry (Charlotte, N.C.): Challenges seem to be similar this year and last.