The Application of the Assembly Line to the Delivery of Oral Health Care

This paper examines the delivery of oral health care and compares the delivery in 2020 with that before 1900. While equipment and materials have changed, the design of the office, and the use of personnel within the office has remained remarkably similar. The doctor is responsible for diagnosis and treatment with some support services provided by hygienists and assistants. This piece work delivery model contrasts with an assembly line model. The assembly line model is explored here in a hypothetical visit to a dental office in 2025. The paper describes the layout of practice as well as the role of the doctor and auxiliary personnel in the office.