American Dental Association · 8 Sep, 02:53 · Technology briefing

My View: The future of dentistry isn't more technology. It's more humanity.

An opinion piece in the American Dental Association argues that the future of dentistry relies less on technological advancement and more on enhanced human connection.

What it means for you ↓ Courses for this story

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

An opinion piece in the American Dental Association argues that the future of dentistry relies less on technological advancement and more on enhanced human connection. The author contends that while tools evolve, the core of successful practice remains patient empathy and interpersonal rapport. This perspective challenges the prevailing industry narrative that prioritises digital innovation above all else. Instead, it suggests that clinicians who cultivate deeper emotional intelligence and communication skills will better serve patients. The article urges professionals to reconsider their development focus, emphasising that genuine human interaction is the critical differentiator in modern healthcare delivery, rather than merely adopting the latest clinical hardware or software solutions.

Employer demand for Psychology skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

Every headline redistributes opportunity. Here is who this one rewards — and how to be on the right side of it.

This shift signals that soft skills are becoming your primary competitive advantage. As technology becomes commoditised, your ability to empathise, communicate clearly, and build trust will define your career trajectory. You should prioritise developing emotional intelligence and patient-centred communication over purely technical certifications. Focus on active listening and cultural competence to differentiate yourself in a crowded market. Smart professionals will now seek training in psychology and interpersonal dynamics. Review your current skill set; if it lacks human-centric competencies, address this gap immediately. Engage in mentorship or role-play exercises to refine your bedside manner. Ultimately, your value lies in connecting with patients on a human level, making these skills indispensable for long-term professional success and patient retention.

For this story, the fields that convert it into pay are Psychology, Healthcare Management, Leadership and Communication Skills — exactly the programmes matched below. The chart shows the indicative salary uplift certified professionals report in each of those fields; every one of them is a click away, from £79, finishing in as few as 20 days.

Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

Enrol in these
to benefit.

These programmes position you for exactly this shift — online, self-paced, and finishing with a verifiable certificate you can share the day you pass.