Below, Dr. Dennis Sommers shares with the AAO his thoughts on primary principles to follow throughout the course of an orthodontic career:
The benefits of ethical practice. During residency, Dr. H.E. (Gene) Thompson advised, “Just take good care of your patients. Everything else will take care of itself.”
Although this might sound like an over-simplification at first, following Thompson’s philosophy anchored in the AAO’s Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct and Clinical Practice Guidelines can provide a profitable and satisfying practice.
Seek to broaden your knowledge to improve your abilities via continuing education opportunities throughout your orthodontic career. CE offerings available through Constituent, AAO and sponsored meetings help keep us abreast of advancements in techniques, technology, management and more. Such elements are essential to maintaining optimal outcomes for patients. Investments of time and money toward continuous learning pay dividends for orthodontists and patients.
Be cautious of those who advocate ideas touted as “revenue builders” not fully vetted through double-blind studies or published in peer-reviewed journals. Being on the “cutting edge” (bleeding edge?) of the newest trend can be risky. There will always be those willing to sell snake oil advice or solutions. Tried, true, tested and approved methods are the surest way toward satisfying results for both patient and doctor – and avoidance of potential liability issues.
Support elements that support practice success. AAO elements that “have your back” deserve your financial support. AAOPAC/Advocacy team efforts have historically addressed state and national governmental elements that have potential to adversely impact orthodontic practice and/or patient health and safety. The AAO Foundation has likewise focused on elements that benefit the profession. Success of these entities depends on your commitment to support them.
Take good care of those who work with you. Talented, dedicated, dependable staff who work with you (rather than “for you”) are an important key to the success of orthodontic practice. Treat them well.
Support elements that help others. Find ways to do good within your community. Although financial success is nice, true gratification is realized when helping others beyond the doors of your office.
Editor’s Note: Dr. Sommers of Minot, North Dakota retired after 40 years in orthodontic practice. He is a past president of the North Dakota Society of Orthodontists and the North Dakota Dental Association and contributed to updating/rewriting of the AAO Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct and Clinical Practice Guidelines for Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. He currently serves as the AAO National Advocacy Network (NAN) AAOPAC Captain for North Dakota.
In 2024, Dr. Sommers was inducted into the AAOPAC Hall of Fame in recognition of his record as annual contributor for 30 years (since the PAC was established in 1994).
The above article is part of our celebration of members in conjunction with AAO’s 125th anniversary. We are seeking member stories! As part of the AAO’s history, please consider recording a short, simple video about your experiences. Simply click on the link above to access our tool that makes it easy.
