
PRACTICE DESIGN & SETUP

6. SELECT EQUIPMENT & TECHNOLOGY
Laying the groundwork for a digitally driven practice
Choosing the right technology for your practice can seem overwhelming — but it’s manageable if you keep these principles in mind:
- Choose foundational equipment that supports both care and growth. Start with core pieces like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) units and intraoral scanners. These provide a strong base from which to expand your digital capabilities
- Take a tiered approach to implementation. Invest in one piece of technology at a time. “It’s easier to learn one new step today and another in six months than trying to radically change your entire practice all at once,” says Moffat
- Think long-term when shopping for equipment. Avoid investing in technology that could limit your capabilities down the road. Keep your options open and plan for scalability
- Involve your team early. Share your vision of digital dentistry with your staff. Walk through daily workflows together and ask for input on how technology could improve them. When your team understands the “why” behind your investment, they’re more likely to adopt and champion the change
- Test before you commit. Ask for a product demo, talk to another doctor who’s implemented the same technology, and ask your Henry Schein equipment specialist to walk you through the product’s benefits and how it can grow with your practice
- Hire with technology in mind. Many newer dental assistants already have experience with digital tools, such as intraoral scanners. Consider tech comfort and training when making hiring decisions
- Review your Equipment Selection and Specification (EQ) Plan with your Henry Schein adviser. This includes tailored equipment recommendations based on your services, plus detailed spec drawings for architects and contractors to ensure accurate installation
GETTING STARTED
Your equipment specialist can work directly with your architect and contractor to ensure your infrastructure is ready not just for today’s needs but also for future expansion.
Questions to consider:
- What data drops (cable runs inside the walls) should be built in now for a growing practice?
- What hardware and software are currently compatible — and how will they integrate with equipment you may add later?
- Are there any lease terms (like restrictions on drilling into load-bearing beams) that could impact installation?
It’s equally important to walk your contractor and architect through your current or planned workflows, so they understand how digital dentistry fits into your practice. For example:
- If you’re adding intraoral scanners, will you review scans with patients in the operatory or a consultation space?
- If you’re fabricating night guards, how do you envision digital tools improving outcomes?