Deveron Dental Centre

Background

The Devon Dental Centre, established 14 years ago by Principal Dentist and Practice Owner, Morven Gordon-duff, has long valued advanced technology in dental practice. Having used Software of Excellence (SOE) firsthand as an associate in New Zealand, the choice to implement SOE at Deveron Dental Centre was a clear decision. The practice's focus on innovation and patient engagement eventually led them to trial Pearl AI as a beta user.

Challenge

Before adopting Pearl AI, the practice faced a common diagnostic challenge: early detection of caries (tooth decay). Traditional black-and-white X-rays were effective but sometimes limited in helping patients visually understand the need for treatment. Additionally, the associates, especially newer team members, needed a diagnostic tool that could support their training and boost their confidence.

Solution

Deveron Dental Centre adopted Pearl AI, an AI-powered dental tool that integrates with SOE’s EXACT software. This integration allowed the team to seamlessly use both systems as one, creating a unified workflow that enhanced diagnostic accuracy and patient communication. Pearl AI offers a colour-coded view of dental issues on X-rays, making it easier for both dentists and patients to see the extent of decay and prioritise treatment accordingly.

Implementation and Training

The team quickly adapted to using SOE and Pearl AI together. Associates found it easy to toggle between the systems, gaining confidence as they viewed colour-coded problem areas on X-rays. This visualisation empowered younger associates to make diagnostic decisions more accurately, while simultaneously strengthening their diagnostic skills by identifying areas that could be improved.

Benefits

1. Enhanced Patient Engagement
   Patients responded positively to the colour-coded X-ray visuals provided by Pearl AI. Being able to visually see the extent of decay has led to more productive conversations about oral health, prevention, and treatment planning. Patients felt more in control of their oral health and appreciated the transparency the technology provided.

2. Improved Diagnostic Accuracy
   Pearl AI's ability to show the depth of decay in real-time helped the practice identify issues earlier, which was especially valuable for high-risk areas that may have otherwise been monitored rather than treated. This led to proactive treatment decisions and a better understanding of disease progression.

3. Efficient Workflow
   Using SOE and Pearl AI together streamlined the entire patient journey, from booking appointments to check-out. The integrated systems reduced time spent on administrative tasks and allowed more time for patient interaction.

4. Training and Development for Associates
   Pearl AI provided a structured, visual way for newer associates to develop their diagnostic skills. Concerns that AI might weaken diagnostic skills were alleviated, as associates found that the software enhanced their understanding, allowing them to learn from missed areas and improve over time.

Results

Since integrating Pearl AI with SOE, Deveron Dental Centre has seen a marked increase in patient engagement, with patients showing more interest in preventive care and a willingness to adhere to recommendations for hygiene visits. Diagnostic accuracy has improved, and early interventions have helped prevent more serious dental issues down the line.

The practice has also gained a reputation for staying at the forefront of dental technology, an aspect that patients appreciate. Pearl AI and SOE have become integral tools in delivering a streamlined, patient-centred care model that focuses on long-term oral health.

Conclusion

For Deveron Dental Centre, the decision to integrate SOE with Pearl AI has transformed their approach to patient care and engagement. The advanced diagnostic capabilities of Pearl AI, paired with the reliable practice management features of SOE, have enhanced both patient experience and team confidence. The team highly recommends this integrated solution for practices aiming to improve diagnostic accuracy, workflow efficiency, and patient satisfaction.