When Should an Orthodontic Practice Bring in a Consultant?

Most orthodontists are amazing at what they do clinically. They can straighten teeth, fix bites, and create beautiful smiles. But if you ask them about running a practice, they might give you a blank look. Dr. Saleh Al Daghreer, an orthodontic consultant with considerable experience (learn more about Dr. Saleh Al Daghreer), frequently witnesses practices that are well-managed but struggle to grow. So when is the right time to bring in a consultant?

The Daily Life of an Orthodontic Consultant

Imagine an orthodontic consultant as a business partner who has an understanding of your clinical world. They will work on operations, marketing strategies, staff management, and practice transitions. Most people think consultants are meant for failing practices. This is not true. The best time to hire a dental clinic consultant is when your practice is doing well but could be doing better. They optimize what is working and fix what isn't working.

Three Clear Signs It's Time to Call a Consultant

Your Growth Has Hit a Wall

Your clinical skills haven't gotten worse, but patient numbers remain absolutely stationary month after month. You're doing great work, but new patients aren't coming through the door like they used to. This normally means marketing needs a facelift, or these referral systems are demanding attention. 

Daily Operations Feel Chaotic

Small issues just keep popping up everywhere. Maybe scheduling is a nightmare, billing takes forever, or staff members have trouble figuring out what they're supposed to be doing. These may sound trivial, but together, they consume a significant amount of your time and energy that could be better spent treating patients.

Major Changes Are Just Around the Corner

Buying a new practice, selling your current one, or simply opening another office are all big decisions. Such transitions would require legal paperwork, financial planning, and considerations of operational changes that most orthodontists have never dealt with previously.

Recognition of these signs at an early stage would go a long way in stopping small problems from escalating into major headaches over time.

Why Timing Matters When Hiring a Consultant

When done right, there is everything to lose or gain by timely assistance. Here is what happens when practices bring consultants before their problems get out of hand:

• Stricter operating efficiencies mean less wastage of time and more income

• Happier patients stick around longer and refer more friends

• The less stressed you are, the more engrossed you become in clinical work

• Smoother transitions, if buying, selling, or expanding

The best part is that you are still doing what you love while someone else handles the business headaches. These benefits are exactly why timing is as important as the decision to get help.

Making the Smart Move Forward

Hiring consultants isn't about accepting defeat. It's about making a wise business decision before it is really needed. Most successful orthodontists acknowledge they can't be good at everything; they ask for help when they need it.

If any of those warning signs ring a bell, it is time to consult someone who has been through it. Those combining real orthodontic experience with proven business skills can lead practices through difficult times and into profitable growth. The key is to call in the experts before these small things grow into big ones that cost enormous time and finances to get fixed. One such expert is Dr. Saleh-al Daghreer. Contact him today and see how the right guidance can transform your business while you focus on what you do best.

See why Dr. Saleh Al-Daghreer is Edmonton's Unparalleled Dental Clinic Consultant, and connect with him professionally on LinkedIn.