By FDC2025 Speaker Janet Velazquez
In today’s dynamic market, the ability to adapt and innovate is not just advantageous, it’s essential. Businesses that consistently evolve their models and strategies are better equipped to meet shifting customer needs and respond to ever-changing market conditions. The field of dentistry is no exception. Yet, many dental practices struggle to achieve sustained profitability. Why is that?
In this article, I explore how operational efficiency directly impacts profit margins and share actionable steps you can take today to reduce inefficiencies that may be hindering your office’s financial success.
A Personal Lesson in Efficiency
One experience often stands out when I think about the critical importance of operational efficiency. I was onsite with a new client for our first encounter, and the day began with a brief morning huddle, during which I quietly observed in the background. The meeting ended and everyone went their separate ways to go about their day. I quietly follow behind the front desk team. It wasn’t long before the morning big production patient walked through the door. Well prepared, Mrs. Sally had taken her Valium the night before and was sure to have her husband drive her. It wasn’t long before the assistant greeted her with a smile. The patient was promptly seated, and as the dentist proceeded to administer the in-office short-acting sedative in walks, Teresa, the treatment coordinator, was out sick the day prior. Having missed the morning meeting, Teresa takes a few minutes to get acquainted with the day’s schedule. Jumping to the first patient’s account, it wasn’t long before Teresa realized that Mrs. Sally didn’t have a payment record for the day’s services. It was then that a sense of panic entered the room. The all too familiar feeling that travels through an entire office in a matter of moments. Not only did Mrs. Sally not pre-pay for her services, but she also didn’t sign any consent forms!
This incident exposed a critical gap in operational processes: the absence of a documented, comprehensive, written system to ensure all necessary steps are completed before and after a surgical appointment. Sadly, this was an expensive lesson that affected the production for multiple days and left a lasting impact on the patient’s experience. The good news is that the results were transformative once we put a protocol in place! Addressing the inefficiency not only improved the patient experience moving forward but also boosted the team’s confidence. Now, a team member’s call-out wasn’t so scary. Improving operational effectiveness made way for a seamless patient experience, and the practice’s reputation and profitability grew as a result.
Leadership: The Cornerstone of Success
The success of any organization is deeply rooted in the quality and effectiveness of its leadership. Strong leaders establish the framework for an environment that prioritizes excellence and drives results. However, even the most visionary leaders cannot achieve lasting success alone. Creating and maintaining a high performance culture requires the team’s ongoing collaboration and commitment.
The Power of Documented Processes
Establishing and maintaining documented processes and systems is one of the most impactful ways to boost profitability. Here’s why:
- Clarity and Consistency: Documented workflows provide your team with a clear, standardized framework for delivering excellence according to your practice’s unique standards.
- Efficiency and Trust: By eliminating guesswork, these systems promote consistency in daily operations, something highly valued by patients and essential for building trust.
Regularly revisiting and refining these processes ensures your practice remains agile and aligned with evolving industry demands and customer expectations.
Unlocking Your Practice’s Potential
Achieving financial success in dentistry, or any business, requires intentionality. Leaders who prioritize consistency, foster trust and champion efficiency create the foundation for sustainable growth. When these principles are put into practice, the results are not only profitable but also deeply fulfilling. By embracing these “secret ingredients,” you can unlock your practice’s full potential and achieve the consistent success your team and patients deserve.
Janet Velazquez earned her bachelor’s degree in industrial organizational behavior and business communication from Rollins College. She is a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management. Ms. Valezquez is the owner of JV Practice Solutions.
Ms. Velazquez will present the courses “Essentials for Business Growth” and “The Secret Ingredients for Consistent Success” on Thursday, June 19, at the Florida Dental Convention. Learn more and register at www.floridadentalconvention.com.
Beyond the Bite 