Growth Doesn’t Have to Hurt
As clinicians and leaders, we’re constantly challenged to embrace new ideas and technologies. Sales representatives pitch the latest innovations, patients expect cutting-edge care, and our staff must adapt to our decisions. But the big question is: how do you decide when and where to commit to change?
Do you meticulously log procedure times, analyze production dollars, and compare staff wages to their output? Or do you rely on your “Spider Sense,” letting intuition guide you?
In my early career, I leaned heavily on idealism—trusting reps and colleagues to lead the way. I wanted to be the good guy who joined the party. Looking back, I would beg my younger self to do things differently.
A New Approach to Growth
Instead of simply going with the flow, I encourage you to think for yourself.
Seek out new ideas.
Ask questions before you commit.
Find a mentor and listen to their wisdom.
Then make your decision - and fully commit to it.
Growth should be guided by thoughtful consideration, not just the pressure to chase trends. And this intentionality should extend to the most important people in your practice: your dental assistants.
The Heart of Your Practice: Dental Assistants
Dental assistants are the lifeblood of every practice. They crave success just like you do - measured in respect, recognition, professional growth, and fair compensation. Without them, your business simply cannot thrive.
That’s why investing in them is non-negotiable. Give them opportunities to grow:
Introduce new tools like 3D printers or updated composite systems.
Ask for their input when considering new technology.
Make their workday faster, cleaner, and more enjoyable.
When you challenge and empower your assistants - whether it’s with new workflows or techniques like restoring Class 2s without bands, wedges, or clamps - you elevate not only their careers but also the quality of care in your practice.
Adapt or Fall Behind
Dentistry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. From digital workflows and new materials to lasers and AI, the landscape is changing fast. Younger doctors are often driving these innovations, and they expect progress.
If you don’t adapt, you risk what I call a “business root canal”- painful, drawn-out, and avoidable.
The solution?
Stay humble enough to learn.
Prioritize time and resources for growth.
Seek mentorship to guide your decisions.
For me, working with Travis Rodgers and his Dental Venture Capital consulting service has been invaluable. Our weekly coaching calls keep me accountable, open-minded, and ready to lead my team into the future.
Moving Dentistry Forward
My mission is simple: to innovate and improve dentistry for everyone. Growth doesn’t have to hurt - it can be exciting, energizing, and deeply rewarding.
By embracing new methods and technologies thoughtfully, we can make dentistry better for our teams, our patients, and ourselves.
About Dr. Mark G. Thoreson
Dr. Thoreson is the CEO & Creator of Inflatrix and founder of Wyoming Professional Training, LLC, where he has trained dental assistants for more than 25 years. He is available for innovation consultations, interviews, and keynote presentations.
