On this episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast, hosts Zach Dykes and Dr. Brice Gilliam dive into one of the most challenging aspects of running an orthodontic practice: identifying and managing negative team dynamics. Together, they share actionable advice for tackling the problem of “bad apples” within a team—insights that can help improve workplace culture and drive practice success. Tune in to this eye-opening episode and learn strategies to enhance your team’s cohesion and productivity.

Negative dynamics within a team can harm morale, productivity, and patient experience. Dr. Brice emphasizes that identifying and addressing “bad apples” is a necessary, albeit difficult, task for leaders. Here are some behaviors to watch for:

Dr. Brice recommends paying attention to your gut feelings about a team member. If their presence consistently creates tension or discomfort, it may indicate a deeper problem.

Once you’ve identified problematic behaviors, swift and deliberate action is essential. Dr. Brice outlines a five-step process to address these issues effectively:

Prevention is just as important as addressing existing issues. Here’s how leaders can create a culture that discourages negative behaviors:

Dealing with team members who exhibit minor infractions, such as occasional tardiness, can be tricky. Dr. Brice suggests addressing these “small bruises” early, before they escalate into larger issues. He advises leaders to have private conversations with these team members to set expectations and outline steps for improvement. If the behavior persists, it may be necessary to make difficult decisions to protect the team’s overall wellbeing.

Both Zach and Dr. Brice emphasize the broader impact of addressing negative behaviors. When leaders take a firm but fair stance, it sends a clear message to the rest of the team: the practice values professionalism and mutual respect. Conversely, failing to address bad behavior can lead to a decline in team morale and a culture of complacency.

By addressing issues head-on and fostering a supportive environment, leaders can cultivate a team that thrives on collaboration and shared success. As Dr. Brice aptly put it, “No one person is bigger than the goal of the practice.”

If you’re ready to improve your team dynamics and create a healthier work environment, take the first step by applying these strategies in your practice. Address issues promptly, reinforce positive behaviors, and lead with clarity and consistency. Your team—and your patients—will thank you.

For more actionable tips and insights, listen to the full episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast. Let us know your thoughts and questions, and join us in building thriving orthodontic practices that benefit everyone involved.

The post Bad Apples Holding Your Orthodontic Practice Back? Act Now! appeared first on HIP Creative.

In this episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast, Dr. Brice Gilliam, owner of Elevation Orthodontics and a recipient of America’s Top Young Dentist award, joins host Zach Dykes to discuss effective marketing, team management, and community engagement. 

A common frustration for orthodontists is dealing with leads that seem unproductive. Dr. Gilliam reframes this issue, suggesting that there are no inherently “bad leads.” Instead, every lead is an opportunity.

Team burnout is a significant challenge in fast-paced orthodontic practices. Dr. Gilliam emphasizes the importance of putting the right people in the right roles.

Successful marketing starts with a clear understanding of your ideal patient. Dr. Gilliam suggests creating a detailed patient avatar to guide your efforts.

Marketing alone isn’t enough to grow a practice. Dr. Gilliam underscores the importance of engaging with your local community.

Economic fluctuations can impact patient decisions, particularly in practices that focus on adult patients or luxury services. Dr. Gilliam recommends offering flexible payment plans to make orthodontic care more accessible.

Your practice’s branding and patient experience should be consistent across all touchpoints, creating a seamless journey from first contact to post-treatment follow-up.

Online reviews and search engine visibility play a critical role in attracting new patients. Dr. Gilliam provides practical tips for strengthening your online presence.

Ultimately, the success of an orthodontic practice comes down to the perceived value of your services. Dr. Gilliam advises focusing on how treatment enhances patients’ lives.

The insights shared in this episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast offer a comprehensive roadmap for orthodontists looking to enhance their practices. From redefining leads and managing team roles to community involvement and leveraging reviews, these strategies are designed to help you grow sustainably in a competitive market.

Whether you’re a startup practice or a seasoned orthodontist, applying these principles can make a meaningful difference in your patient retention, team satisfaction, and overall success. For more valuable tips and discussions, tune in to the GrowOrtho Podcast and continue learning from industry leaders like Dr. Brice Gilliam.

The post Why ‘Bad Leads’ Are Actually the Key to Your Practice’s Success! appeared first on HIP Creative.

In this episode of the GrowOrtho podcast, Dr. Brice Gilliam—one of America’s top young dentists and the owner of Elevation Orthodontics—shared some invaluable financial advice for orthodontic practices. He tackled big questions like handling down payments and collections without losing the value of your services. 

Let’s face it: making orthodontic treatment affordable while maintaining its perceived value is a juggling act. Dr. Gilliam offered some smart strategies to navigate this tricky balance.

Consider partnering with financing companies like CareCredit. They pay you upfront, and patients pay them back over time. If a patient defaults, it’s the lender’s problem, not yours. This setup keeps your cash flow steady and reduces the hassle of chasing payments, all while keeping patients satisfied.

Dr. Gilliam suggests requiring patients to set up ACH (Automated Clearing House) payments. Unlike credit cards, which can be easily paused or canceled, ACH payments come straight from a patient’s bank account and are more reliable. It simplifies things for everyone and adds a layer of financial security for your practice.

If upfront costs are scaring patients away, offer to split the down payment into smaller installments. It’s a win-win: patients feel less financial strain, and you maintain your practice’s financial health.

While making treatments accessible is crucial, Dr. Gilliam warns against strategies that might hurt your bottom line—like zero-down payment plans that aren’t carefully thought out. Instead, focus on:

As Dr. Gilliam puts it, “You can race to the bottom, but the problem with racing to the bottom is—what if you win?”

Competing on price alone is tough, especially against big corporations that can afford to offer lower prices. Dr. Gilliam’s advice? Add extra value to your treatments instead of cutting prices. Here are some ideas:

These extras help justify your pricing and give patients more bang for their buck.

 Discounts can be a double-edged sword. If overused, they can make your services seem less valuable. Dr. Gilliam recommends:

Your Treatment Coordinator (TC) is key in guiding patients through financial options. Dr. Gilliam emphasizes giving your TC the freedom to build relationships and make decisions that help patients say “yes.” In his practice, the TC handles everything from the first call to the financial details, ensuring a smooth experience.

By trusting your TC to offer personalized financial solutions, you can boost case acceptance and strengthen patient relationships.

When new patients ask about costs, it’s important to be clear but flexible. Dr. Gilliam’s team uses a range-based approach:

This way, patients feel confident and informed from the get-go.

Great financial strategies need solid systems behind them. Dr. Gilliam stresses the importance of building trust with both your staff and patients. By setting up clear processes and training your team well, you ensure consistency and efficiency.

For example, having a defined way to handle financial discussions can reduce stress for everyone involved.

Dr. Gilliam’s insights are a goldmine for any orthodontist looking to fine-tune their financial approach. By adopting these strategies, you can boost patient satisfaction, enhance your profitability, and reinforce your reputation for offering top-notch services.

The post The Payment Strategy That Will Revolutionize Your Orthodontic Practice appeared first on HIP Creative.

In this episode of The GrowOrtho Podcast, Luke had the pleasure of hearing from Jill Allen, an orthodontic consultant with over 30 years of experience. Jill has helped countless orthodontic practices—especially startups and acquisitions—set up strong systems and achieve incredible success.

First things first: where you set up shop matters—a lot. Jill emphasizes the importance of digging deep into demographic data to ensure the area fits your practice’s vision. For example, if you’re aiming for a high-end boutique practice, setting up in a neighborhood with lower income levels might not be the best idea. Working with experts to analyze demographics can help you find the perfect spot with the right patient base, saving you from financial headaches down the line.

Once you’ve nailed down the location, it’s time to secure loans, design your office space, and choose equipment—all tailored to what you want your practice to be.

Over the past couple of decades, orthodontic practices have undergone a massive transformation, moving from paper files to fully digital workflows. Nowadays, many practices start with digital brackets and aligners instead of traditional fixed systems. These advancements aren’t just about being flashy—they make things run smoother and improve the patient experience.

Jill also highlights how artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a big deal in orthodontics. While some people worry that AI might replace jobs, she sees it as a tool to boost efficiency. You can use AI tools like ChatGPT to help with tasks like planning social media posts or writing job descriptions, freeing up your staff to focus on patient care and growing the practice.

If you’re hesitant about diving into new technology, Jill recommends taking it step by step. Start small—maybe use AI for some administrative tasks—and build from there. As she puts it, “The last thing you want is to be the last office adopting technology.”

Managing your team is one of the toughest parts of running a practice. Back in the day, staff members might stick around for decades, but now people often move on after just a few years. Jill emphasizes creating clear career paths within your practice to help keep talented people on board. Being transparent about pay scales and growth opportunities can help your team see their job as a real career, not just a temporary gig.

She also points out the importance of hiring the right people for specific roles. For instance, the person who answers your phone should have the skills and friendly attitude to make a great first impression on potential patients.

If you’re starting out, getting your name out there in the first year is crucial. A solid marketing strategy should use multiple channels—think SEO-friendly websites, active social media, and 

community involvement. Jill cautions against putting all your eggs in one basket; using a mix of marketing methods helps you reach a wider audience.

Balancing patient affordability with your practice’s financial health is also key. Promotions like “$99 down” might attract patients, but they can strain your cash flow, especially with high fixed costs. Jill stresses the need for strategic planning to avoid short-term tactics that could hurt your practice in the long run.

Jill and her team help orthodontists set up essential financial systems, like keeping track of accounts and using tools like QuickBooks. Without these systems, you risk running into financial mismanagement, which can be disastrous for your practice.

Leadership is another area where orthodontists often struggle. As your practice grows, you need to transition from being hands-on with every detail to becoming an effective leader. This means delegating tasks, trusting your team, and continuously improving your leadership skills through books, podcasts, or other professional development avenues.

One of the things Jill loves most about her work is helping practices hit big milestones—like making $1 million in revenue in their first year. She believes these successes come from having a clear vision, sticking to your plan, and being able to adapt when challenges arise.

She also thinks it’s important to take a moment to appreciate what you’ve achieved, instead of always focusing on what’s next. Celebrating your wins, big or small, can keep you motivated and remind you why all the hard work is worth it.

Building a successful orthodontic practice takes a mix of strategic planning, embracing technology, and strong leadership. Jill Allen’s insights offer a roadmap to help you navigate these challenges, so whether you’re just starting out or have been in the field for years, you can thrive in this ever-changing industry.

For more insights from Jill Allen, be sure to visit her website at Practice Results and check out her podcast, Hey Docs, where she dives deep into topics specifically tailored for orthodontic startups and acquisitions.

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Orthodontic practices today are evolving in response to increased competition and patient expectations. Dr. Brad Jacobs, a successful orthodontist, transformed his practice through strategic shifts and a renewed focus on patient needs. Here are key insights from his journey that can help other orthodontists improve their own practices.

Dr. Jacobs transitioned from a traditional, doctor-centric approach to a model that better addresses patients’ priorities. Instead of lengthy, detailed explanations about orthodontic techniques, he found that patients value straightforward answers focused on results—like a beautiful smile and aligned teeth.

For orthodontists, focusing on what matters most to patients can create a more engaging and satisfying experience. Streamlining consultations and communicating in simpler terms can foster trust and make patients feel valued, leading to stronger relationships and better outcomes.

A game-changer for Dr. Jacobs was organizing his practice structure by creating an org chart and establishing clear roles, including a dedicated call center. This organizational clarity ensured that team members knew their responsibilities, streamlining operations and improving patient care.

Orthodontists can benefit from reviewing their current team roles and responsibilities to make sure everyone is positioned to succeed. By assigning roles strategically, staff can work more efficiently, freeing up time and resources to focus on patient care.

Dr. Jacobs noticed a significant improvement when his team began responding more promptly to prospective patients. In today’s fast-paced world, where people expect quick responses, this change allowed his practice to capture more leads and start treatments sooner.

Orthodontic practices should prioritize speedy responses to inquiries, ensuring patients don’t have to wait long for consultations or treatment starts. This not only meets modern expectations but also increases the likelihood of turning leads into loyal patients.

Dr. Jacobs learned that marketing is most effective when the practice’s infrastructure is prepared for growth. After developing more efficient systems, his practice could better handle the increased patient flow that marketing brought.

Before launching marketing campaigns, orthodontists should evaluate how well their teams and processes can manage additional patient volume. Preparedness on the backend ensures that increased patient interest leads to successful outcomes and enhanced reputation, rather than operational stress.

Today’s patients, accustomed to immediate service through platforms like Amazon and Netflix, prioritize convenience. Dr. Jacobs found success by offering same-day starts and reducing wait times for consultations, making it easier for patients to initiate and continue their treatment.

Consider ways to make your practice more accommodating to patients’ schedules. Offering flexible appointment times, quick-start options, and streamlined in-office processes can make a substantial difference in patient satisfaction and retention.

In his early practice, Dr. Jacobs focused on opening multiple locations to capture more market share. However, he later realized that expanding too quickly can dilute resources and increase overhead without necessarily improving profitability. He ultimately consolidated his locations and focused on maximizing the efficiency and potential of his main office.

Rather than immediately expanding to multiple locations, orthodontists can focus on optimizing their current practice. Strengthening operations at one well-run location may yield better long-term results and provide a foundation for sustainable growth.

To boost team morale, Dr. Jacobs created an incentive system where every 60 patient starts triggered a team-wide bonus. This straightforward goal motivated the team to work together to reach targets and kept morale high.

An incentive system doesn’t have to be complex to be effective. By setting clear, achievable goals and rewarding staff for their contributions, orthodontists can foster a positive work environment and encourage a team-oriented mindset.

Orthodontists have traditionally pursued “textbook perfection” in treatment outcomes, but Dr. Jacobs found that not all patients are looking for perfect alignment. By listening to patient preferences, he was able to customize treatment plans, focusing on what each patient valued most.

Recognizing that each patient has unique goals allows orthodontists to provide personalized care that meets expectations. Flexibility in treatment can improve patient satisfaction, as patients feel their individual needs are understood and respected.

Technology was essential in helping Dr. Jacobs’ practice streamline its operations and focus more on patient care. Tools for patient communication, scheduling, and treatment planning enabled his team to work efficiently even as patient numbers grew.

Investing in the right technology can help practices handle administrative tasks, freeing up time for patient interactions. Digital tools not only streamline workflows but also improve patient accessibility and engagement with the practice.

Dr. Jacobs emphasized the impact of consulting services on his success. Expert consultants helped him identify areas for improvement, refine his operations, and make strategic decisions for growth. By staying open to guidance, he was able to accelerate his practice’s development and navigate challenges effectively.

Bringing in expert guidance can provide fresh insights and help avoid common pitfalls in practice management. Whether it’s marketing, operations, or patient care, consultants can offer valuable perspectives to help orthodontists stay competitive.

Dr. Brad Jacobs’ journey provides orthodontists with practical lessons in patient-centric care, efficient operations, and strategic growth. By focusing on these key areas, practices can thrive in today’s competitive landscape while enhancing patient satisfaction and outcomes.

For more insights, listen to the full interview with Dr. Jacobs on the GrowOrtho Podcast, available on YouTube and major podcast platforms.

The post Optimize Before You Expand: Dr. Brad Jacobs on Orthodontic Success appeared first on HIP Creative.

Running a successful orthodontic practice isn’t just about having top-notch clinical skills—it’s about building a strong team that works together to give your patients an exceptional experience. In a recent episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast, Dr. Brice Gilliam, a highly regarded young orthodontist and owner of Elevation Orthodontics, shared some practical insights into team dynamics. His tips can help you create a productive work culture, strengthen team loyalty, and ultimately grow your practice. Let’s dive into the key strategies Dr. Gilliam recommends and see how you can apply them.

Trust is the foundation of any high-functioning team, and as the leader, it’s your job to cultivate it. Dr. Gilliam emphasizes that building trust means being there for your team and showing them you’ve got their back. If a patient mistreats a team member, step in and make it clear that you prioritize their well-being. This sends a strong message that respect is non-negotiable in your practice, leading to a loyal and committed team.

How To Make It Happen:

Dr. Gilliam highlights the importance of transparency when it comes to roles and expectations. When people aren’t sure what’s expected of them, it can lead to frustration and burnout. By clearly outlining each team member’s responsibilities, everyone knows what they need to do and feels empowered to excel.

How To Make It Happen:

Transparency fosters a sense of ownership and helps your team understand the “why” behind decisions. Dr. Gilliam stresses that when team members feel informed, they’re more likely to align with the practice’s goals.

How To Make It Happen:

Micromanaging can stifle growth and creativity. Instead, Dr. Gilliam suggests empowering your team by giving them autonomy over their tasks. Focus on the outcome rather than dictating how things should be done. This approach not only shows respect for your team’s abilities but also encourages them to take ownership of their work.

How To Make It Happen:

Orthodontic practices often have a divide between the front and back offices, but Dr. Gilliam advocates for cross-training to foster respect and teamwork. When team members understand each other’s roles, they’re more empathetic and cohesive.

How To Make It Happen:

Change can be tough, and resistance is natural. Dr. Gilliam advises approaching resistance with empathy and giving team members time to adjust. Remember, you’ve had time to think about these changes—your team needs time too.

How To Make It Happen:

Setting unrealistic goals can demotivate your team, while attainable ones provide focus and energy. Dr. Gilliam suggests making goals ambitious yet achievable and rewarding performance based on outcomes.

How To Make It Happen:

Acknowledging achievements boosts morale and strengthens loyalty. Dr. Gilliam emphasizes the impact of simple acknowledgments, especially since they’re often rare in professional settings.

How To Make It Happen:

A unique way to build team engagement is by connecting community involvement to your team’s passions. Dr. Gilliam found that participating in events his team valued, like volunteering at an animal shelter, fostered a sense of purpose and commitment.

How To Make It Happen:

Dr. Gilliam’s approach shows that investing in team dynamics is essential for a thriving orthodontic practice. By building trust, setting clear expectations, fostering open communication, and empowering your team, you lay the groundwork for a loyal, engaged group that’s aligned with your vision. With these actionable strategies, you’re well on your way to cultivating a supportive, high-performing culture that patients will notice and appreciate—leading to a successful practice built on teamwork and dedication.

To hear more from Dr. Gilliam and delve deeper into these insights, listen to the full episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast. It’s packed with practical advice, relatable stories, and strategies to help you navigate team dynamics and grow your practice.

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In the rural town of Paducah, Kentucky, where driving an hour for dinner is commonplace, one orthodontist has managed to double his practice without adding extra workdays. Dr. Shawn Rice, a self-proclaimed perfectionist with a humble beginning, transformed his practice through strategic changes that many might find unconventional. This is the story of how he overcame skepticism, embraced new methods, and found greater fulfillment in his profession.

Growing up as a farm kid in western Kentucky, Dr. Rice experienced firsthand the uncertainties of rural life. When his father sold the family farm during his teenage years, it left a lasting impression on him. Determined to find a stable career, he initially considered becoming a pediatrician but shifted to dentistry after reassessing his options.

An unexpected incident at 17, where he lost a lower incisor while intervening in a fight, led him to orthodontics. His orthodontist’s willingness to meet him at midnight to fix his teeth left a profound impact. “You can change someone’s life, how they feel about themselves, and how the world looks at them,” Dr. Rice reflected on his choice of profession.

After graduating from the University of Louisville’s orthodontic program in 2000, Dr. Rice returned to Paducah to start his own practice. Despite being in one of the most competitive areas on paper, his priority was family—ensuring his children grew up knowing their grandparents.

For nearly two decades, Dr. Rice operated out of a modest office in a less frequented part of town. “It took me ten years to even start to get busy,” he admitted. His practice relied heavily on Medicaid patients, comprising about 15-20% of his clientele. This was his way of giving back, though it eventually became financially unsustainable.

In 2019, Dr. Rice moved his practice to a more visible location near the local mall, resulting in a 30% growth purely from increased foot traffic. However, he faced a significant challenge: the Medicaid program was causing a loss of $800 per case due to overhead costs. Realizing this was not sustainable, he made the tough decision to stop accepting Medicaid.

Seeking alternatives to grow his practice and continue serving underprivileged patients, Dr. Rice began exploring new marketing strategies. In June 2022, he partnered with a marketing firm (referred to here as “Hip”) and was introduced to modern orthodontic business practices. Initially, he was resistant. The idea of offering promotions like “$500 off” seemed counterintuitive. “Why would you do that?” he questioned, concerned about the potential loss in revenue.

Dr. Rice’s turning point came when he attended a training program called Fishbein Fundamentals. Accompanied by his team, he was exposed to innovative strategies that challenged his traditional mindset. His staff was enthusiastic, ready to implement what they had learned, but Dr. Rice was hesitant.

After some deliberation, he decided to take a leap of faith. Right before Thanksgiving, he agreed to adopt the recommended changes, including offering a $500 discount and restructuring payment plans to lower the barrier of entry for patients.

The impact was immediate and overwhelming. Upon returning from the holiday break, the practice had 70 new patient inquiries, far exceeding their scheduling capacity. “We had no place to put them,” recalled Lori, Dr. Rice’s office manager. The team quickly reorganized their schedule, adopting the efficient systems they had learned.

By reducing the initial down payment and offering more affordable monthly payments, Dr. Rice made orthodontic care accessible to a broader demographic. This approach not only compensated for the loss of Medicaid patients but also aligned with his original goal of helping underprivileged kids.

One of Dr. Rice’s concerns was maintaining the quality of care while increasing patient volume. Known for his meticulous nature—spending 20 minutes on tasks like debonding braces—he feared that efficiency might compromise results.

However, he discovered that with better time management and trust in his initial assessments, he could maintain high standards without the extra minutes. “You can go faster than you think you can,” he realized. By reducing unnecessary repetition, he freed up time to see more patients without extending his workweek.

Remarkably, Dr. Rice managed this growth while reducing his workdays from three and a half to three per week. His practice saw a 101% increase in growth, and they are on track to double their annual revenue from when he started implementing the new strategies.

The practice’s success did not require expanding to multiple locations or hiring additional orthodontists. In a rural area where the population is dispersed, Dr. Rice focused on maximizing his existing practice’s potential. “We just want to keep it going where we’ve been going,” he stated, emphasizing quality over quantity.

Dr. Rice credits much of the success to his dedicated team and the integral role played by HIP. His staff was eager to implement the new strategies, and HIP’s expertise provided the necessary framework to handle the influx of new patients and reorganize the practice’s operations efficiently.

By lowering financial barriers, the practice could help more patients than ever before. A notable example was a Medicaid-eligible child who didn’t qualify for the program. With the new payment plans structured under HIP’s guidance, the family could afford treatment without the aid of Medicaid. This allowed Dr. Rice to continue serving those in need while maintaining financial viability.

Dr. Rice’s journey offers valuable insights:

Looking ahead, Dr. Rice plans to continue refining his practice within the rural community he serves. While he doesn’t aim to expand geographically, he remains open to opportunities that align with his mission of providing quality care and giving back.

Dr. Shawn Rice’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability and the positive outcomes that can result from embracing new ideas. In a field where traditional methods often prevail, his willingness to challenge the status quo not only revitalized his practice but also enhanced his ability to serve his community. For professionals hesitant about change, Dr. Rice’s experience illustrates that growth doesn’t necessarily require more time—it requires the right strategies and an open mind.

The post I Went From Skeptic To An Orthodontic Success appeared first on HIP Creative.

Starting or expanding a dental/orthodontic practice can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to securing the right financing. Whether you’re fresh out of residency or a seasoned dentist or orthodontist looking to grow, navigating loans, interest rates, and cash flow can be a complex task. In this episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast, we’ll break down key financing strategies, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical steps to ensure long-term success.

We’ll cover everything from startups to expansions and even refinancing options, so you can unlock your practice’s full potential.

The road to opening a successful dental/orthodontic practice often starts with financing. While securing loans for equipment, marketing, and working capital might seem like a straightforward process, the details matter. The right loan can set you up for success, while an ill-advised financial decision could restrict your growth potential.

For many dentists and orthodontists, the first question is whether to go with traditional banks or specialized lenders. Each path has its pros and cons, and understanding these is crucial for making the best decision.

One of the first choices you’ll face is deciding between traditional banks like Wells Fargo or Bank of America and newer fintech lenders like Provide. Traditional banks have long-established lending practices, but they often come with slower approval times, more rigid structures, and less flexibility.

Fintech lenders, on the other hand, offer speed and adaptability. As Jon Shaw, a healthcare financing expert from Provide, explains in this episode, “Fintech companies have a streamlined process, offering approval times of just four to five days compared to the weeks or months it may take with traditional banks.”

This agility is invaluable, especially when every day of delay could cost you thousands in lost revenue. Fintech lenders also offer tailored solutions based on individual needs, making them more suited to healthcare professionals.

The excitement of starting your own dental/orthodontic practice can sometimes lead to financial missteps. Here are three common pitfalls to avoid:

1. Underestimating Start-Up Costs

2. Lack Of Cash Reserves

3. Taking On Too Much Debt Too Soon

Once your practice is thriving, you may consider expanding to a second or third location. While the idea of multi-practice ownership is appealing, it’s not without challenges. Expansion requires strategic planning, especially when it comes to financing.

One of the biggest hurdles is securing financing for ground-up construction or purchasing additional real estate. According to Shaw in this episode, “Provide offers 100% financing for ground-up construction, which includes everything from land purchase to building out the facility. This allows dentists and orthodontists to keep their cash reserves intact while expanding their practice.”

If you’re looking to expand, ensure that your financial foundation is solid. Start with one location, master its operations, and then move forward. This steady, pragmatic approach ensures you don’t spread yourself too thin.

If you’ve been in business for a few years, you might find that refinancing your practice loan could save you money or free up cash flow.

Here are a few scenarios where refinancing makes sense:

1. High-Interest SBA Loans: SBA loans often come with higher interest rates and variable terms. Refinancing to a fixed, lower interest rate can save you money over the life of the loan.

2. Consolidating Debt: If you have multiple loans or short-term debt, refinancing can help streamline your payments and improve cash flow. This can free up funds for renovations, new equipment, or marketing.

3. End Of A Loan Term: Some loans come with “balloon payments,” where the full balance is due after a set period. If this is approaching, refinancing can help you avoid large one-time payments that could strain your finances.

Whether you’re just starting or ready to expand, securing the right financing is critical to your dental/orthodontic practice’s success. Working with a fintech lender like Provide offers unique advantages in speed, flexibility, and tailored support for healthcare professionals.

By avoiding common pitfalls and considering long-term growth strategies, you can ensure that your practice not only survives but thrives. So, whether you’re refinancing, expanding, or just opening your doors for the first time, make sure you have the right financial partner by your side. Find out more about Provide by emailing Jon Shaw at [email protected].

By taking the time to plan your financing carefully, you can avoid costly mistakes and position your practice for long-term success. If you’re ready to take the next step, be sure to consult with experts who understand the specific needs of dental and orthodontic professionals.

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Building a private orthodontic practice is no small feat. It requires not just clinical expertise but also a savvy understanding of business and marketing. In this episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast, we dive deep into Dr. Kristen Knecht’s journey from a budding orthodontist to a successful practice owner. Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow, you’ll find valuable insights to help navigate the challenges of orthodontic practice management.

Dr. Knecht initially set her sights on a career in medicine, specifically dermatology. However, a chance encounter changed her trajectory. While in college, she began spending time at an orthodontic practice and discovered her passion for this blend of aesthetics and healthcare. “There’s still an art to it, and I really love it,” she explains in the podcast. This pivotal moment led her to switch from pre-med to pre-dental, eventually pursuing orthodontics at LSU.

After completing her residency at UConn, Dr. Knecht faced a crossroads. She started her career with Pacific Dental (DSO), which offered stability and a steady income. However, she quickly realized the limitations, such as lack of autonomy and fluctuating productivity across different offices. “You start to plateau,” she recalls, pointing to frustrations with varying support staff and treatment coordinators.

Dr. Knecht’s decision to start her own practice was driven by a desire for independence and the ability to shape her professional environment. Her experience in the DSO model, while valuable, underscored the importance of autonomy in delivering consistent patient care. She highlights, “I would never be happy unless I opened my own [practice].”

Just six weeks after opening her practice, the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. For many, this timing could have spelled disaster. But Dr. Knecht saw it as an unexpected opportunity. With fewer patients initially, she had time to fine-tune her practice operations and focus on targeted marketing efforts. “Looking back, it was great timing because I didn’t have all these patients and treatment that I had to worry about,” she reflects in this episode of the GrowOrtho Podcast.

One of Dr. Knecht’s standout strategies has been her focus on holistic patient care, particularly her attention to airway health. She integrates orthodontic treatment with a broader healthcare approach, often referring patients to other specialists to address underlying issues like breathing problems. This holistic perspective not only differentiates her practice but also drives strong patient outcomes.

Dr. Knecht’s journey offers several key takeaways for orthodontists considering starting their practice:

Dr. Knecht’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and strategic planning in building a successful orthodontic practice. Her focus on comprehensive patient care and willingness to adapt to changing circumstances has positioned her as a leader in her field. For any orthodontist looking to start or grow their practice, her journey on the GrowOrtho Podcast provides invaluable lessons and inspiration.

Are you ready to take your orthodontic practice to the next level? Learn from the best by listening to the GrowOrtho Podcast and start making strategic decisions today to ensure your long-term success!

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