Advice for the Orthodontist – Update management systems. Many ortho practices are operating far below their potential because of outdated systems. Inefficient systems lead to decreased production and …

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Know what your practice does. Do you know all of the services your practice offers? Staff members should be able to give a brief description of every treatment provided by the practice. No matter what …

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Advice for the Scheduling Coordinator – Monitor patients with multiple broken appointments. A few people missing check appointments may not seem like such an issue. However, imagine the effect of a …

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Strive for “WOW” customer service. Patients will recommend your practice only when you provide them a great experience. If the customer service is mediocre at best, patients won’t have anything good …

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Create a realistic operating budget… and stick to it. Analyze past income and spending, calculate what changes will be needed, and factor in any significant anticipated investments. Once you’ve …

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Don’t say “That’s impossible” to patients. When a patient asks, “May I have an appointment on Tuesday” and your answer is, “That’s impossible,” you’re basically saying you don’t care. Instead, let the …

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Lean forward when seated and talking with parents and patients. Leaning forward shows interest in the other person. It creates positive energy between two people, and this will build the parents’ and …

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Say “thank you” to your lab. A quality lab is an asset to your practice, patients and staff members. You should express your appreciation when a dental lab consistently produces quality work. This can …

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When you change systems, remember to change the documentation. Although outdated business systems should be replaced rather than tweaked, some interim fixes will be necessary. When you alter …

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Principles of Practice Leadership: Open the channels of communication. As the practice leader, you are responsible for keeping team members informed and inspired. Learn to use not only formal …

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Advice for the Orthodontist – Follow the rules for setting goals. Goals should be written down and measurable—and have deadlines. They should be reviewed, and updated if appropriate, annually or …

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Honor members of your team for their accomplishments. Reward successes with praise and special gifts. Celebrate individual and practice achievements by holding staff dinners or fun events. Convey a …

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