Choose the Best Practice Management Software for Your Endodontic Practice

• • Maintenance: Requires regular server maintenance, updates, and backups to remain HIPAA compliant. Local IT support is often necessary. Software updates are infrequent, disruptive and incur additional costs.

• • Security: Level of security relies heavily on the IT infrastructure provided by local IT support or done in-house by practice staff. Physical server data stored locally in the practice is more susceptible to downtime, server crashes, and ransomware attacks. 

• • Cost: High initial setup costs for servers and ongoing expenses for maintenance and support. Server equipment does have a shelf life and will need to be replaced every 3-5 years on average. Additional costs for number of users, number of locations, and customer support often incur additional charges.
  • Software Options: Applications like PBS Endo and TDO offer server-based software for Endodontics.

                      Cloud-compatible software leverages cloud technology for data storage and limited data access. While it provides more flexibility than server-based systems, it often maintains a connection with on-site servers. Users may have limited access to cloud workflows or access remotely, but the core functionalities are still dependent on local servers. This model mitigates some of the infrastructure challenges associated with purely server-based systems. 

• • Maintenance: Less maintenance compared to server-based systems, as cloud providers offer off-site backups.

• • Security: Storing data offsite can mitigate the kidnapping of patient data in the case of a ransomware attack, however, as long as physical servers are housed in the practice locally, the data is still susceptible to breaches, of which the practice is solely responsible.

• • Cost: High initial setup costs for servers and ongoing expenses for maintenance and support. Cloud backups and compatibility are often offered as an additional service, with an included charge.
  • Software Options: Applications like TDO-Web are offered an extended add-on service to their standard TDO server-based application. This web option offers patient registration on your website, data backups (not including CBCT files), and a Google Workspace. This add-on service can help to mitigate some of the ransomeware risks by storing a backup offsite, however, it’s still reliable on a server-based application with excess costs and security

     

                         Web-based software operates entirely over the internet, eliminating the need for local servers. Users access the application through web browsers, allowing for unparalleled mobility and flexibility. This model is not tied to a specific physical location, enabling users to work from anywhere with an internet connection, while still affording IP Address limitations when needed for security purposes. Updates are seamless and occur automatically, reducing the burden on the end-user for maintenance and updates. 

• • Maintenance: Minimal maintenance required on the user’s end. Updates and maintenance are handled by the software provider.

• • Security: Generally higher security, especially when hosted on secure platforms. Providers often prioritize HIPAA compliance. 

• • Cost: Often a subscription-based model with lower upfront costs, especially considering the reduced need for local infrastructure, and can often be considered a tax-deductible operating expense.

• • Software Options: Applications like Dentrix Ascend offer web-based software for General Dentists but often miss the mark on meeting the needs of Referral-Based business models like Endodontics. DentalEMR is the ONLY web-based solution tailored specifically to prioritize referred care, and the modern demands of Endodontic practices.
    
    
    

 

In Summary: 

                         In the ever-evolving dental industry, choosing the best practice management solution for your Endodontic practice is paramount to it’s success and understanding the distinctions between server-based, cloud-compatible, and web-based applications available to you is the first place to start. Each option comes with its own set of considerations, influencing factors such as accessibility, security, maintenance requirements, and cost. DentalEMR provides the best solution to position you to adapt to modern demands, fortify your patient data security and enhance business success in your practice.

 

Connect with our talented Practice Success Team Members to learn more about DentalEMR and how it can take your Endodontic practice to the next level!