The Hard Truth About Tech Adoption in Orthodontics (and Why It’s Worth It)

The Realities of Adding New Tech (and How We Make It Work)

Adopting new technology in orthodontics isn’t always plug-and-play. Many practices struggle—staff push back, systems stall, and change feels like an uphill climb. But that’s not our story. My team has built a culture that embraces evolution. They don’t just go along with change—they engage with it, adapt to it, and help make it better. I’ve made my share of mistakes along the way, but I’ve been fortunate to have a team that believes in progress and takes ownership of it.

Still, it’s worth acknowledging that for many doctors, the path to innovation can feel overwhelming. Understanding why that happens—and how to make it easier—is what this post is all about.

My Two Tech Adoption Approaches

I’ve introduced innovation into my practice in two distinct ways:

1. Muscle Through with a Vision: Our Dental Monitoring Story

When we adopted Dental Monitoring, there were almost no playbooks. Very few orthodontists were using it, and even fewer were talking about how to make it work inside a real practice. We had to figure it out on our own—everything from patient messaging to clinical workflows to dashboard management.

We made mistakes, yes—but we never lost sight of the vision: a more efficient, flexible, patient-centered practice. That clarity pulled us through the messiness of trial and error. It taught me how powerful it is to lead with belief and perseverance, especially when you're charting your own course.

2. Intentional System Change with External Mentorship

More recently, I changed our bracket system—not a tech upgrade, but a foundational shift in how we deliver care. It’s often described as one of the most difficult transitions in orthodontics, with a high barrier to change due to training, inventory, and workflow complexity.

This time, I took a structured approach. I attended CE meetings, visited two high-performing practices already using the system, and mapped out a detailed plan for onboarding and implementation.

Because of the groundwork and transparency, my team trusted the shift. They knew I had done the homework, and they knew I was committed to setting them up for success. That trust made all the difference—and it reinforced what we’ve built together: a team that welcomes progress, whether it’s technological or procedural.

The Growth Mindset: Your Most Important Practice System

What made both approaches successful is the mindset we’ve intentionally cultivated. We operate with a growth mindset, a concept developed by psychologist Carol Dweck, which is the belief that skills and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work.

In a practice setting, this means that change isn’t threatening—it’s an opportunity. Everyone in our office understands: improvement is part of the job description. New systems and tools aren’t surprises; they’re expected. That belief removes fear, opens the door to feedback, and gives us the flexibility to evolve.

We build a drumbeat of “why” around learning and growth, and we make it clear that this is how we operate. That mindset turns what used to be resistance into curiosity—and eventually, into mastery.

Learning Keeps You Sharp

At 45, with gray hair in the mirror and a full schedule, you’d think I might slow down. But continuing to learn and evolve is exactly what keeps me feeling sharp, curious, and connected to this profession.

There’s real science behind that. Studies show that ongoing learning enhances cognitive flexibility, stimulates neuroplasticity, and supports long-term brain health. Learning keeps your mind agile—and your leadership inspired.

Whether it’s:

Online courses

CE events

In-office mentorships

Clinical masterminds

…the key is to stay engaged and seek out those who are doing it well.

Final Thought: Lead the Charge

Tech adoption isn’t about gadgets—it’s about mindset and leadership. Your team will follow your example. If you show up early to learn, if you make the first mistakes, and if you stay committed to growth, they will too.

And if you can build a culture where change is not the exception—but the expectation—you’ll never fall behind.