Why Dentists Are Late Adopters of Technology

By Dr. Eric Nunnally, DMD

Posted Feb 09, 2012 in Labs & Profiles

When it comes to choosing between a zirconia or gold restoration and esthetics aren't a concern, dental student Eric Nunnally, CDT, opts for gold because it has a longer history of use and proven clinical track record.


Technician-turned-dental student Eric Nunnally details why dentists are so apprehensive about new products and procedures-and what you can do to help them get on board.



When it comes to new porcelains, substructures, materials, impression trays...you name it, I've heard this statement countless times from technicians: "Why won't our doctors try this new product? If they would just give it a chance, they would see how great it is!"


While I only have seven months' experience as a clinician, the reasons why most dentists are so late to adopt--or even try--new technologies are becoming increasingly clear. I'm even experiencing the apprehension of being an early adopter of new procedures and products myself.


Here's what I've learned so far:


Dentists are taught to practice evidence-based dentistry. Because of the number of new materials and techniques on the market today, many dentists are insisting on documented evidence of...

Please Log In or Sign Up (it's free) to read the rest of this article
About The Author

  • Dr. Eric Nunnally, DMD

    Dentist at Triple Crown Dentistry · Prospect, KY

    I am a dental lab tech (of 15 years) who returned to school a age 30 to pursue my DMD degree which I obtained in May of 2013. I am a lab tech first and love to stay in touch and be a part of the dental lab industry.

Please Log In or Sign Up to post to this article
Show More