Inventory management and analysis in an orthodontic practice

Inventory is a word very frequently used yet most often never practiced, in the true sense, by the practitioners of orthodontics. This article clears the mist around the word "inventory" and provides simplistic explanations regarding maintaining and managing inventory in day-to-day clinical practice. Inventory is always dynamic; it is recommended that every individual/practice is different, and it is important to individualize the ways and means of maintaining an inventory and making it work positively toward a successful practice. Investing in good inventory software and delegating the responsibility to a specific person with careful monitoring by the orthodontist is important. The key operative word for inventory management is "Neither Too Much, Nor Too Less."