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Digital Choice Anxiety
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Decisions, decisions
In today’s world, we are often spoilt for choice. Whether we’re looking for anything from car insurance or a business loan provider to a new shirt or lunchtime sandwich, there are many options available to us – often with only small differences between them. This can make the choice more difficult, and for larger decisions, can induce considerable anxiety. Though the increasing range of products, materials and technologies available in dentistry today is generally a very good thing for the profession and for patients, this is another example of where decisions can be stressful for the practice owner.
Not just in the mind
Research into the psychology behind decision anxiety seems to have gained momentum in recent years, likely in response to the increase in anxiety and stress reported across the UK population.[i]
Choice overload is a term often used to describe a cognitive impairment that happens when too many options are presented for a particular decision. Too many potential solutions can reduce our ability to make the right choice, as well as negatively impacting our satisfaction with the decision we make.[ii]
Four factors have been identified as having an impact on the occurrence of choice overload: choice complexity, decision task difficulty, preference uncertainty and decision goals. The complex and uncertain the decision, the grater the likely choice overload.[iii] In dentistry, big decisions regarding the purchase of new capital equipment, comprehensive implant kits or software packages would fall into this category. There are many aspects to consider from clinical outcomes to business operations, making each choice a difficult and multifaceted one. By not completely understanding the benefits available and the impact each solution could have on patients, the team and the business will promote uncertainty too.
Risk and potential benefit aversion
It has been found that a lack of perceived predictability or certainty when approaching a decision can negatively impact the process for an individual. Most people will unconsciously develop a bias for the option that they believe presents the lowest risk, even if that means experiencing less of a benefit. This is especially evident among people who regularly experience high levels of anxiety.[iv]
As a particularly stressful profession, dentistry is prone to fairly high levels of anxiety on a day-to-day basis. Add to this the need for principals to continually invest in their business while choosing from the extensive range of products and materials on the market today, and it’s easy to see how choice overload could keep some away from taking their practice to the next level.
A systematic approach
To avoid choice overload, it’s essential to approach a new purchase calmly and logically. Make a list of what you want to gain from your investment, whether that is higher quality imaging, reduced patient discomfort or a more efficient clinical workflow. If you are adding a new discipline or expanding upon your orthodontic, endodontic or implant services, then you will need to consider your goals in direct relation to these treatment modalities. You’ll also need to think about your budget, the staff training required and the on-going support you may need from the manufacturer/supplier.
Then it’s important to start identifying the options available that fit your criteria – these alone should begin to filter out some of the choices. Compare features, packages, prices and support options, perhaps looking to make a shortlist of 3 or 4 solutions to trial. It will also be helpful to consider product reviews and request recommendations from friends or colleagues who can share their own experiences to help you further narrow your options. In many situations, simply browsing solutions online is not enough to properly inform your decision – so seeking opportunities to trial products, arrange demonstrations and test them out for yourself is essential.
Attending BDIA Dental Showcase 2025 is the next step for every principal considering investment in their business. Though a plethora of products, materials and digital technologies will be on display – you’ll have 250 leading dental brands under one roof – you’ll be able to compare solutions side-by-side, engage with the product experts and seek bespoke guidance on what will suit you best. There will also be an opportunity to watch live demonstrations, book demos for your practice, tailor packages and discuss show-only offers for total confidence in your decision-making. Now you can say goodbye to choice anxiety without reducing your options!
Business-confident decisions
As is true in other areas of life, dental practice principals face a huge choice of options when looking to introduce new or upgrade existing digital technologies. Choice anxiety and its ability to overwhelm an individual are real concerns for a lot of professionals, especially when considering a substantial investment. Banish both and make confident decisions with a logical approach, careful comparison and expert support.
The dental community trusts BDIA Dental Showcase 2025 for a reason
14th-15th March
ExCeL London
Register your interest for 2025 at https://dentalshowcase.com/register-interest-pr