Improving Patient Outcomes: How Method’s Digital Tools Enhanced Patient Satisfaction Scores

The Connection Between Efficiency and Patient Satisfaction

In modern dentistry, patient experience is just as important as clinical outcomes. Long wait times, uncomfortable procedures, and multiple visits for a single restoration can lead to frustration and lower satisfaction scores. Patients value efficiency, comfort, and predictable results—elements that can be difficult to maintain with traditional workflows.

Dr. Sarah Mitchell, owner of a busy general dentistry practice, was committed to providing high-quality care, but her team struggled with inefficiencies that affected the patient experience. Traditional impression techniques caused discomfort for many patients, and extended turnaround times often required multiple visits for crown and bridge cases. The inconsistency of traditional workflows also led to cases requiring chairside adjustments, increasing time in the chair and adding stress to both staff and patients.

After noticing a dip in patient satisfaction scores related to long appointments and treatment delays, Dr. Mitchell knew she needed to make a change. She decided to transition to a fully digital workflow with Method Dental, looking for a way to streamline case management while improving overall patient experience.

A Faster, More Comfortable Patient Experience

The first major improvement patients noticed was the elimination of traditional impressions. Instead of uncomfortable trays and putty, intraoral scanning allowed for a quick and precise digital impression process. Patients who had previously experienced discomfort with traditional impressions immediately appreciated the change, noting how much faster and easier their appointments became.

Turnaround times also improved significantly. By eliminating physical impression shipping and working with Method Dental’s fully digital process, restorations were delivered faster than before. This meant fewer delays, allowing for earlier seating appointments and a reduction in the number of temporary crowns required. Method Dental’s next-day crown service provided additional flexibility for cases that required urgent attention, preventing the frustration that often comes with waiting for a final restoration.

With a more precise digital workflow, crown and bridge cases arrived with a better fit, reducing the need for chairside adjustments. This improvement directly impacted the patient experience, as appointments became more predictable and shorter. Instead of dealing with unexpected delays during seating appointments, patients experienced a smoother and more efficient process, further increasing their satisfaction.

Measurable Improvements in Patient Satisfaction

Within six months of implementing Method’s digital workflow, Dr. Mitchell’s practice saw a marked increase in patient satisfaction scores. Patients responded positively to the improved experience, citing faster turnaround, increased comfort, and a more seamless treatment process. Follow-up surveys indicated that patients felt their overall visits were shorter and more efficient, with a greater sense of confidence in the quality of care they received.

Appointment efficiency also played a role in boosting satisfaction. With fewer remakes and adjustments, the practice was able to run on a more predictable schedule, reducing wait times and last-minute changes. This not only benefited patients but also improved the overall flow of the practice, allowing staff to provide a more relaxed and attentive level of care.

By integrating Method Dental into her practice, Dr. Mitchell was able to enhance both clinical outcomes and the overall patient experience. The transition to digital dentistry not only streamlined operations but also strengthened patient trust and loyalty, demonstrating that efficiency and quality care go hand in hand.