In a recent Orthodontic Products podcast episode, Chief Editor Alison Werner interviewed Josh DeVries, the founder and CEO of Intiveo, a cloud-based patient communication software tailored for dental and specialty practices. Intiveo offers features like automated appointment confirmations, recall reminders, booking requests, and reputation management.

The discussion delved into trends shaping the orthodontic industry in 2024 such as personalized treatment plans, the growth of adult orthodontics, diverse patient engagement strategies, and advancements in technology that promise to enhance care options for patients and streamline practice workflows. 

DeVries emphasized the significance of personalized treatment plans, considering factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle for more effective outcomes. The growth of adult orthodontics, driven by aesthetic brackets and clear aligners, was identified as another prominent trend. Adult patients, comprising one-third of orthodontic patients in the U.S., are seeking cosmetic improvements at a higher rate, contributing to a 40% increase over the past decade.

“[There is] a trend towards people putting more value in cosmetic care. This is driven by aesthetics,” says DeVries. “People want to have a healthy looking smile more so than an actually healthy smile, which I think is really beneficial to the orthodontic industry.”

Regarding patient engagement, DeVries highlighted the need for varied communication methods to cater to different patient preferences, combining email, text, and phone calls. 

The podcast also touched upon advancements in orthodontic technologies. DeVries highlighted the rise of in-house solutions, 3D printing, computer-aided fabrication, teledentistry, and emerging robotic dentistry. These technologies offer both precision and efficiency, impacting urban and remote areas alike, providing advanced care.

“People just want solutions to their problems,” says DeVries. “And the quicker and better the solution is, the more appealing it is for us to consider.”