Dentists are responsible for over 25 per cent of all European medical radiographs. The cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanner is an effective solution for dentists to take 3D images that better support diagnostics and treatment provision. However, a CBCT scanner can be a considerable investment so it’s important to get it right.
Judging the best time to invest in your business can be a stressful battle between impulse and rationale. By choosing carefully you can avoid any issues and enjoy all the benefits of an in-house CBCT scanner.
Balancing the books
The first question a practice owner needs to ask is the obvious one: can I afford it? A busy practice with a constant flow of patients would suggest that business is booming, and is an early metric as to whether a CBCT scanner is cost-effective or not. Endodontists, implantologists and orthodontists have all employed CBCT scanners successfully for their treatments, so identifying patient numbers and potential cases in those dental disciplines can determine the usage a CBCT scanner would have at your practice.
When it comes to crunching the numbers, consideration should also be given to staffing. Making sure the right members of the team are confident and competent with a new CBCT scanner is essential to keeping an efficient workflow. Furthermore, time and money must also be allocated for training so that the operators have total mastery over the scanner; there is an abundance of resources available to learn from.
Logistically, installing a CBCT scanner does not come with too many extra costs; floor strengthening and a particular room temperature are not required, unlike for CT scanners. After installation, there could be maintenance, software updates and potential repairs to consider while optimising return on investment (ROI). A few textbook calculations on an envelope should give you a rough idea on the financial feasibility of a CBCT scanner for a specific practice, and exploring warranties and repayment plans is helpful.
Rescuing referrals
Assessing the volume of patients that have been referred by your practice is a solid indicator as to whether it is the right time to invest. Incorporating a CBCT scanner will make your practice more efficient by removing the need to refer patients out for imaging. Treating these patients in-house increases profits with each scan by eliminating the cost of referring to a third party.
Keeping everything within the practice makes it easier to manage costs. The referral process also has a major impact on both treatment times and the overall efficiency of treatment planning, slowing down practitioner productivity. The tide could change here too: your practice could have patients referred to it for CBCT scans, generating an additional income stream.
Patient patience
Some patients are surprised when their dentist has to refer them, creating a momentary lapse in trust that their practice is their best option. An in-house CBCT scanner improves patient satisfaction, as not having to refer patients can generate positive word of mouth and a potential uptick in new patients. This is because a CBCT scan is a quick and comfortable experience for patients, taking a weight off their shoulders by having it completed within a consultation and not at another time at a different location.
The sharp image quality of a CBCT scan can help with patient education, providing comprehensive information on their oral health in a streamlined treatment process that is not broken into two or more appointments. By illustrating any problems to the patient using the sophisticated imaging, patients may be more confident and comfortable with the treatment options offered. Elevating the standard of care can cause a ripple effect of patient satisfaction, greatly encouraging business and accelerating the ROI on a CBCT scanner.
Get busy buying
A CBCT scanner can expand a practice financially and surgically by enabling swifter consultations and promoting patient satisfaction. For those seeking to realise the benefits of having an in-house CBCT scanner, the CS 8200 3D Access is Carestream Dental’s state-of-the-art gamechanger. Integrating a user-friendly interface with crystal clear imaging and a compact aesthetic, the CBCT scanner will transform your practice for the better.
As technology evolves to meet the needs of practitioners, it is essential that you consider the long-term financial benefits of purchasing a CBCT scanner. Offset the risks by staying ahead of the competition.
References available on request.
For more information visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk