The why: Background story
An orthodontic clinic built on friendship, vision, and compassion has opened in the heart of Vaudreuil-Dorion, Quebec. Flex Orthodontistes is the creation of Dr. Gaston Federico Coutsiers Morell and Dr. Anthony Rossi, two longtime friends who met during their orthodontic specialty training at the University of Alberta. Their story began before classes even started when they joined a few fellow applicants for dinner before their school interviews. They immediately connected on a professional and social level, subsequently becoming close friends and study partners throughout the program. Study sessions often turned into deep conversations about life, core values, and their entrepreneurial aspirations for opening an orthodontic practice. They planned to build something special, meaningful, and impactful. When it came time to choose a location for settling beyond graduation, Dr. Anthony introduced Dr. Gaston to Montreal. Being a world traveller who has studied across many continents, Dr. Gaston instantly embraced the opportunity, and their partnership dreams began to unfold.
The how: Strategic project planning
While working as orthodontic associates, the future partners gave themselves time to refine their clinical vision while exploring different design ideas and gaining financial stability prior to construction. When a prime corner unit with busy anchor tenants came available in a well-established retail plaza, they knew it was a great opportunity. Located in one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities, the site offered unbeatable visibility, easy accessibility, and proximity to a thriving community of young families. Instead of starting small, they chose to lease a 3000 sq/ft space with future expansion in mind. They planned for six fully plumbed operatories, two consultation rooms, private staff washrooms, and a change area for the team, because comfort matters for everyone who is caring for patients. The design planning process took six months, followed by another six months for construction. During that time, by continuing to work in their associateships, they were able to feel financially stable, clinically inspired, and comfortably focused on the project.
The results: Technical design features
The design of Flex Orthodontistes is anything but ordinary. During their travels, Dr. Gaston and Dr. Anthony took cues from inspiring environments that made them feel comfortable and energized, like the clean minimalism of Apple Stores, the warmth of W Hotels, and the relaxed vibe of airport lounges. They incorporated unique lighting, distinct materials, and a strategic layout for their practice. The reception area features a long communal table where patients can plug in, unwind, or chat. It is intentionally designed to feel more like a lounge than a waiting room. Arching ceilings, layered textures, and industrial lighting complete the boutique feel. From the start, they committed to going fully digital. The clinic includes a future-ready dry lab for in-house 3D printing, as well as space for remote consults and digital charting. Even the typical toothbrushing station was reimagined so that every inch of the practice could serve a more meaningful and functional patient experience.
The outcome: Practice success & community impact
Dr. Anthony and Dr. Gaston feel that running a business takes trust, mutual respect, and a clear vision. At Flex Orthodontistes, the partners lead side by side, balancing their strengths and decisions equally. They stay deeply connected to the community by supporting local hockey teams, sponsoring events, and taking the time to really get to know the families they serve. One key lesson from their journey was to stay flexible once you move in, as you discover creative ways to tweak the space. At Flex Orthodontistes, flexibility isn’t just a name, it’s a mindset that has shaped their design, guided their leadership, and continues to fuel their evolution. They have built a place where patients feel cared for, the team feels proud, and the community feels well served.
About the authors:
Darcie is co-founder of Bella Vita Designs Inc, an interior design company specializing in creating beautiful, functional spaces for start-ups, remodelling, expanding, or relocating your dream practice. To discuss your office space needs or to have your proud story & unique design featured, she can be reached at darcie@bellavitadesigns.ca / IG @bellavitadesignsinc / 905-716-8528.
Peter is the Founder of Practice Mastery Inc., a Business Development Coaching company that serves the growth & development needs of your practice. His unique coaching empowers teams, principal dentists, associates & industry companies across North America to achieve extraordinary growth, higher income, and exceptional quality of life. FMI IG @peterbarrycoach, peter@practicemastery.com, www.practicemastery.com, 416.568.5456.