Creating a Custom Template in Dexis: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Dexis software offers powerful tools for dental practices, but customizing templates can take your workflow efficiency to the next level. Whether you're looking to automate common tasks, standardize your practice's documentation, or simply make data entry more intuitive, building a custom template can significantly improve the user experience. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a custom template in Dexis, ensuring you can tailor the software to your specific needs. We'll cover everything from understanding Dexis' template structure, identifying the key elements needed for your custom template, and using the software's tools to implement it. Let's start by outlining some critical considerations before diving into the process.

Why Customize a Template in Dexis?

While Dexis comes with pre-built templates that cover standard needs, custom templates offer unique advantages. They allow you to:

1. Enhance Efficiency: Custom templates reduce repetitive tasks by automating input fields that are used often in your dental practice.
2. Ensure Standardization: Keep all documents uniform, whether they’re for patient records, reports, or billing forms.
3. Improve Accuracy: By pre-filling specific data or fields, you reduce the likelihood of errors.
4. Increase Adaptability: Modify templates as your practice evolves or as regulations change.

Key Elements of a Dexis Custom Template

Before you begin, it's essential to understand the core elements of a Dexis template. These include:

• Patient Information Fields: These will include areas for patient names, ages, medical histories, and any other data relevant to dental treatment.
• Treatment Fields: Specific sections that capture treatment details, like tooth number, procedure codes, and treatment notes.
• Billing and Insurance Information: Make sure to include fields for billing codes, insurance details, and any patient payment information.
• Notes Section: A customizable notes section where the dentist or assistant can leave specific treatment comments.

Steps to Create a Custom Template in Dexis

Step 1: Identify Your Requirements

Before building the template, you need to identify what exactly needs to be included. Start by listing the most common procedures or documentation items that your team uses regularly. If you already have paper or digital forms, these can serve as a starting point.

Step 2: Navigate to the Template Editor

Dexis has a built-in editor for customizing templates. To access this:

1. Open the Dexis software.
2. Navigate to the "Templates" tab.
3. Select "New Template" or choose an existing one to modify.

Step 3: Select and Organize Fields

The template editor allows you to add fields for different types of data. Consider using the following field types:

• Text Fields: For names, descriptions, and notes.
• Date Fields: For treatment dates, birthdates, or insurance deadlines.
• Dropdown Fields: Predefined choices for easier selection (e.g., treatment types, insurance providers).
• Checklists: To ensure each step of a process, like pre-treatment checks, is completed.

For example, if your practice often performs root canals, you may want to include fields like:

• Tooth number
• Procedure code
• Completion date
• Dentist’s initials

Step 4: Customizing Field Labels

Each field should be clearly labeled. Avoid using jargon, and instead, opt for simple, descriptive terms. For example, instead of "Proc Code," label it as "Procedure Code."

Step 5: Set Default Values (Optional)

Some fields might benefit from having default values, especially if the data rarely changes. For instance, if you work with a specific insurance provider most of the time, set that as the default selection in the "Insurance Provider" field.

Step 6: Save and Test the Template

Once your template is complete, save it and test it out. Make sure each field works as expected and that the flow is intuitive for your staff. It's a good idea to get feedback from your team before rolling out the template for daily use.

Step 7: Modify as Needed

No template is perfect from the start. After using the template for a few weeks, assess whether any fields need to be added, modified, or removed.

Advanced Customization Tips

• Conditional Logic: If certain fields should only appear based on previous selections (e.g., treatment type), set up conditional logic in your template.
• Formatting: Customize the font, colors, and layout to make the template easy to read and aesthetically pleasing. This not only enhances usability but also makes documentation appear more professional.
• Template Permissions: Assign permission levels to different templates. For instance, administrative staff may have access to billing templates, while clinical staff use treatment templates.

Table Example: Template Field Types and Uses

Field Type	Description	Example Use Case
Text Field	Free text entry	Patient Name, Procedure Notes
Date Field	Selection of a specific date	Treatment Date, Birthdate
Dropdown Field	Predefined list of options	Insurance Provider, Procedure Type
Checklist	Tickable options for specific items	Pre-treatment Checklist

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcomplicating the Template: It's easy to get carried away by adding too many fields or options. Stick to what’s necessary.
• Forgetting to Test: Always test a template thoroughly before using it with patients.
• Failing to Keep It Updated: Your practice's needs will change over time, and your templates should reflect those changes.

Final Thoughts

Creating a custom template in Dexis doesn't have to be a complicated process. With clear objectives, thoughtful field selection, and attention to detail, you can build a template that streamlines your practice's workflow and boosts efficiency. By incorporating feedback and continuously updating your templates, you ensure that your practice can evolve with ease.

Start simple, gather feedback, and don't be afraid to make changes as needed. A well-crafted template will save time, reduce errors, and improve patient care in the long run.