Navigating change: Why values matter more than algorithms in health care and social media
In the fast-paced worlds of health care and social media, change is inevitable. Both fields are in a constant state of evolution, bringing unique challenges alongside remarkable opportunities. The real test lies in finding balance—embracing innovation and inevitable growth while staying true to core values. Conventional wisdom suggests that success follows a specific formula, whether it’s mastering the latest algorithm on social media or adhering to clinical protocols. However, both areas often defy predictability. True success requires adaptability, flexibility, and a commitment to values that transcend trends.
When I launched my Instagram account, @BloodyToothGuy, in 2015, it was more of a spontaneous leap than a calculated move. At the time, I knew little about the platform, but I recognized an opportunity within the dental world. Inspired by my friend’s daughter’s stuffed animal, cleverly named “Broken Tail Guy,” I thought “BloodyToothGuy” had a nice ring to it. What began as a creative outlet turned into a platform for educating, entertaining, and—most importantly—connecting with the dental community.
Back then, there were very few dental influencers, and my consistent sharing of unique content helped the account grow beyond anything I could have imagined. However, the most surprising part wasn’t the number of followers—it was the relationships and opportunities that emerged. Through this platform, I’ve connected with young dentists across the globe, built valuable business relationships, and even laid the groundwork for MAX, my surgeon-led support platform for oral and maxillofacial surgery.
For years, social media experts have preached that success is formulaic; follow the algorithm, and you’ll be rewarded with likes and engagement. This mirrors health care in many ways, where we’re taught to follow strict clinical protocols for the best outcomes. But anyone who’s worked in either field knows it’s rarely that simple. Meticulously planned content can fall flat, just as a well-executed clinical case can yield unpredictable results. Success in both social media and health care isn’t about rigid adherence to formulas but about staying true to your core values, no matter what comes your way.
From practice to platform: Lessons learned along the way
Throughout my journey—from associate to private practice founder, to leading a multipractice group, and now managing MAX—I’ve learned that authenticity has a profound impact. Whether it’s your audience on social media or your patients in the office, the platform or medium may change, but if your message is grounded in sincerity, it will be evident in everything you do. From my Instagram presence to every one of our practices, these are the values I live by that have been instrumental in my success.
Always do the right thing
Whether you’re sharing content online or caring for a patient, upholding strong principles is essential. In both health care and social media, your values must remain unwavering, even as trends shift or unexpected challenges arise. In patient care, this means consistently prioritizing the well-being of those you serve, regardless of the time and effort required. Similarly, on social media, staying true to your convictions leads to deeper, more meaningful connections. In a world often swayed by trends, prioritize your commitment to integrity, and you’ll feel confident in both your content and your patient care.
Hold yourself accountable first
In both health care and social media, it’s easy to place blame on external factors, be it a challenging case or a fluctuation in follower count. However, true growth begins with self-reflection and accountability. By recognizing our own role in every situation, we empower ourselves to learn and adapt. This mindset not only fosters personal development but also enhances our ability to serve our patients and engage meaningfully with our audience. Embracing accountability first creates a culture of responsibility, allowing us to navigate challenges with integrity and, ultimately, achieve better outcomes for both our practice and our community.
Embrace inclusivity
Social media often highlights only select perspectives, shaped by algorithms that favor certain types of content. In health care, it’s easy to fall into a similar trap, focusing solely on clinical details and missing the broader human experience of the patient. True success in both fields requires embracing inclusivity and considering diverse viewpoints and experiences. By acknowledging and addressing the varied needs of individuals, we foster deeper connections, build trust, and create more meaningful outcomes, whether in patient care or in creating impactful content.
Listen, decide, and execute
Effective listening and decisive actions are crucial for success in both patient care and social media. Patients and followers alike can quickly recognize when they are not being heard or understood. Thoughtful engagement—whether it involves discussing a treatment plan or crafting a social media post—leads to stronger relationships and improved outcomes. By actively listening, making informed decisions, and, most importantly, executing plans with intent, we cultivate trust and loyalty in our practice and on digital platforms.
Be courageous, compassionate, and kind
In a landscape filled with generic holiday announcements and cookie-cutter posts, the accounts that truly resonate are those that embody courage, compassion, and kindness. It’s not just about attracting patients; it’s about expressing genuine passion for our work and our patients. This can take the form of offering thoughtful support to colleagues, engaging personally with individuals, and daring to be bold and authentic in your content. This belief has profoundly shaped my experience in health care and particularly in launching MAX. By staying true to our mission and creating a surgeon-led platform, we’ve demonstrated that compassionate, high-quality care can thrive even within a large-scale health-care environment. By embracing our core values, we’ve challenged the notion that growth must come at the expense of a personal touch. Instead, we’ve successfully expanded while maintaining the exceptional level of care and compassion that our patients expect and deserve.
The fast pace of both health care and social media can sometimes feel like a never-ending race—whether you’re striving for clinical success or chasing online engagement. What I’ve learned from my experiences in both fields is that while you can’t control every outcome or predict every shift, you can always control your values. By focusing on what’s important—doing the right thing, embracing inclusivity, listening and executing, holding yourself accountable, and being courageous, compassionate, and kind—you create a foundation that will guide you through any change. Staying grounded in these values ensures that no matter how the landscape shifts, we remain focused on what truly matters.
Editor's note: This article appeared in the March 2025 print edition of Dental Economics magazine. Dentists in North America are eligible for a complimentary print subscription. Sign up here.
