Term vs. permanent life insurance: What every dentist needs to know

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Life insurance is one of the most important financial tools available, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. As a dentist, you’ve spent years building your career, accumulating assets, and securing your financial future—but what happens to your family, your business, and your wealth if something happens to you? Many dentists recognize the importance … Read more

Do more female dentists rely on their partners for financial advice?

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A British survey reveals that an increasing number of female dentists are relying on their partners for financial advice rather than seeking guidance from professionals. A biennial study from Wesleyan Financial Services found that in 2024, 37 per cent of female dentists primarily sought financial advice from their partners. This marks an increase from 2022, … Read more

Digital innovation in dental instrument sterilization: Meeting RCDSO’s latest guidelines

The RCDSO guidelines stipulate parameters for instrument reprocessing that requiring monitoring and documentation. (iStock)

The cornerstone of patient safety in dental practice lies in proper instrument sterilization and meticulous documentation. As the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) continues to emphasize stringent sterilization protocols, dental practices face increasing challenges in maintaining comprehensive records while managing busy clinical schedules. Critical parameters in instrument sterilization The RCDSO guidelines mandate … Read more

Dentists should prioritize ‘good communication’ to resolve patient disputes, including online reviews 

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While online reviews influence where people spend their money, dentists should focus on effective communication to resolve disputes directly with patients—including those who leave negative feedback online, says a lawyer.  Toronto-based lawyer Josh Koziebrocki, who specializes in defending dentists, spoke out following a recent lawsuit. “Dentists should make efforts to resolve disputes with patients through … Read more

Thinking of retiring? You need to plan ahead

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Take the (fictitious) case of established dentist Dr. Emily Smith. She read some articles and heard through colleagues and professional presenters that it takes between 2 to 3 years of planning to have a smooth sale. Why so long? Because it takes time for any selling dentist to make sure: (i) the practice is in … Read more

Tariffs – What to do as a dental professional in Canada?

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Tariffs present challenges and opportunities. Rather than waste time worrying about when and how much tariffs will be, consider the following actions which will help to improve your practice’s financial health. 1) Buy real estate, specifically your own dental building, especially if there is a real estate crash due to a recession. This will enhance your … Read more

Office space: Long Lake Dental

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The why: Background story In the heart of Nanaimo, B.C., one of Canada’s fastest growing cities, an exciting new dental venture has taken shape. Dr. Rebecca Booker and Dr. Aaron Cooper are a husband-and-wife team that met on their first day of dental school back in 2001. They opened their first practice in 2005, expanding it … Read more

How tracking and analyzing calls can grow your practice

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Do not underestimate the power of the “ring”! The power of online and social marketing is undeniable. Yet, the “old-fashioned” notion of picking up the phone and engaging with a practice is not history. In one of the most comprehensive reports of its kind in recent years, Forrester Consulting looked at the continued impact of … Read more

How direct mail campaigns can drive new patients to your practice

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Standing out in today’s crowded healthcare landscape requires more than just a strong online presence. For dental practices seeking to attract new patients, direct mail campaigns provide a distinctive way to connect on a personal level and drive measurable results.  Unlike digital marketing efforts that can get lost in the noise, direct mail delivers something … Read more

Is your social in a state of flux?

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Making sense of the numbers and gleaning perspective Previously, we shared insights on how to make sense of fluctuations in your website’s traffic and ways to put such data in perspective. With so many potential connections and relationships between your website and social platform presence, it is also essential to understand and exercise some caution … Read more

Office Space: Fielding Dental Healthcare

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The why: Background story Since 1980, this family-owned practice has been a corner stone of the Burlington, Ontario, community. Founded by Dr. David Fielding and his wife, Linda Fielding, the practice has grown over the decades, supported by Linda’s expertise in business consulting and interior design, and their three children: Dr. Ben Fielding, a dedicated dentist; … Read more

A people-first culture: The secret to a thriving dental team

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In the complex and dynamic environment of a dental practice, one thing is certain: teamwork is non-negotiable. It is the foundation of a thriving office, ensuring that patients receive the best care and the team functions seamlessly. Yet, fostering a truly collaborative environment is easier said than done. It requires intentional communication, genuine empathy, and … Read more

The crucial role of patient satisfaction surveys in dentistry and the significance of NPS   

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Introduction  The dental industry today is undergoing a sweeping transformation due to a convergence of factors that include increased public awareness of oral health, rapid advancements in clinical technology, instant access to information, evolving consumer expectations, and growing competition1. For practicing dentists, this shifting landscape brings considerable pressure to adapt, as well as the realization … Read more

Ready, set, succeed: Helping your temp dental hygienists thrive!

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Picture this: A temp dental hygienist walks into an unfamiliar practice, feeling nervous yet determined to do their best. They are given minimal instructions, a quick overview, and shown to an operatory they have never worked in before. With barely 20 minutes to prepare, they catch their breath just as their first patient arrives. Is … Read more