January 2015
·
228 Reads
Social media is the latest buzzword around the world. From teenagers to techies, entrepreneurs to educators, all have embraced the new face of this sizzling phenomenon. Interestingly, social media has made its way into the healthcare industry as well. The so-called “e-patients” of this generation are using the web to gather information, seek online guidance, demand better health information and insist on a distinct relationship with their doctors. However, orthodontists and dentists have failed to use the popular social networking platforms to their advantage. Social media can be an opportunity for better education, accrued compliance and higher outcomes for the patient, whereas orthodontists can learn from experts and peers, discuss clinical problems and share practice management. It might be still in its infancy in the field of orthodontics, but this form of media has the power to revolutionize the way orthodontists and dentists interact with their patients. They need to take advantage of tremendously popular social networking platforms while limiting their exposure to unwanted liability.