Practice management software has been around for quite some time and Dentrix was one of the first systems. For that reason they are one of the leaders of this field. As a testimonial I’ve been using the system for over 8 years. They currently they are on version 11.0 and continue to update and improve their program. It seems to be updated on a yearly basis.
As with most practice management software there is more than enough programs to use to keep you busy. The entire system can run all departments and system operations for the entire office. Almost every imaginable protocol or function needed to operate an office is within the Dentrix system. The program will run your office from basic scheduling, accounting, to tracking your lab cases. These important aspects of practice management are only about 30% of all the different systems this program can do for you.
The company has incorporated several accessory packages to make it all encompassing. Just to name a few fun items. For your hygiene department there is a voice activated periodontal probe headset. This function is very convenient for the person doing the periodontal record because it frees up their hands and makes them more efficient. Digital radiographs and intra/extra oral pictures are captured and stored under the patients file. Your treatment coordinator will have a much easier time to sell and review treatment with your patients. All the clinical data, schedule, and billing will be at a click of a mouse and can be seen on one monitor. Even complex treatment planning with phases or alternative options can be easily separated along with a payment schedule for your patients. The voice activated periodontal probe headset is from the Dentrix Company and cannot be interchanged with other manufacturers. However, the intra/extra oral camera and digital radiography can be interchanged with other manufacturers. These options are very nice because it will allow you the versatility to choose your specific needs. If you use an alternative company’s technology you would be required to purchase a bridge from Dentrix and/or from the alternative company.
Obviously, costs can start to add up with the extra purchase of software bridges. If you do not have an IT person or are not computer savvy the bridging of the software and trouble shooting can be a hassle. If you purchase all the hardware and programs from Dentrix it will be more of a “plug and go” feel. If there are any complications then you are one phone call away from technical support to solve the problem. Sometimes it may be tiresome if both companies are not taking the responsibility for the problem. Although these complications can occur, I use a different digital radiograph and intra-oral camera system with the Dentrix software and have had no problems with the integration. One large disadvantage of using another company other than Dentrix for the accessories is the added cost of the yearly maintenance fees and technical support.
Annual fees for free software updates and unlimited technical support will range easily over $1,000 a year. You can multiply that by two if you use a different company’s digital radiograph technology. Although these yearly fees can add up, I would still highly recommend biting the bullet and continue to pay the fees. Once you stop it is not as easy as starting with the same fee schedule. The company will make you pay a substantial amount to update to a newer version. You’ve already invested thousands of dollars on the initial purchase and the way technology is advancing it would be wise to protect your initial investment.
The biggest fault the Dentrix system has is that it has too much. Training is offered by the company for a fee. They would send representatives to your office to train your staff. If everything were used in the program it could take months of training to get proficient. As I said before we have not been using the software to its full capacity. If you’re looking for a very reliable and stable system to help run your office then you should consider the Dentrix software. I have no regrets with the system and could not imagine our office without it.
Review Synopsis
Product
Dentrix Dental Practice Management Software
The Good
Dentrix has over 24,000 installations and very thorough and reliable software.
The Bad
Expensive annual maintenance fees and initial purchase
The Bottom Line
Overall, well worth the initial start up cost. It will help make your office more productive and efficient. One of the best practice management software programs available.