According to the Levin Group Data Center, only 20% of general practitioner procedures are elective. Most offices need to include a greater level of elective care to increase production annually. The higher the levels of elective care, the higher the profitability.
Highlight whitening. Even in a slow economy, teeth-whitening procedures continue to gain in popularity. Many patients have used some form of over-the-counter tooth whitening products. Practices can add value for patients by presenting more effective whitening procedures and products than those available over the counter. Whitening is often considered a "gateway" treatment that gets patients interested in other cosmetic procedures as well.
Don't rely too heavily on single-tooth treatment. This type of high-volume, low-profit dentistry is taxing for the dentist and the team. Promoting comprehensive dentistry can reveal untapped potential for production in a practice's patient base, resulting in increased production, less stress, and greater profitability.
Roger P. Levin, DDS, is the chairman and CEO of practice management consulting firm Levin Group.
The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization.
