How to Run a Successful Dental Practice: 10 Strategies That Actually Work

September 2025

Did you know that nearly 20% of new dental practices close within the first 18 months? Running a dental clinic is more than filling cavities, it’s about filling appointment books, creating memorable patient experiences, and leading a motivated team. If you’ve ever wondered how to run a successful dental practice, this guide gives you the exact strategies top-performing dentists use to stand out, grow, and keep patients coming back.

1. Give Patients What They Actually Want (Not What Scares Them)

When patients search for a dentist, they’re usually looking for solutions that feel simple and relatable, like routine cleanings, a brighter smile, or straighter teeth. What they’re not looking for is a list of complex treatment names or medical jargon right away.

That doesn’t mean patients never need those advanced treatments. It means the first step is to connect with them in their own language, then guide them to the right solutions in a way that feels natural.

For example:

Someone might say, “I just want whiter teeth,” but what they may really need is professional whitening or even veneers.
A patient saying, “I don’t like the gap in my teeth,” might be a candidate for aligners or other orthodontic options.

The key is to listen first. Meet patients where they are, then recommend treatments without overwhelming them. This builds trust, avoids the feeling of being upsold, and helps patients feel like you’re on their side instead of selling them something.

2. Prioritize Branding & Consistency Across All Touchpoints

Your brand isn’t just your logo, it’s how patients perceive you across your website, clinic interiors, colors, and even your tone of voice. A strong brand creates familiarity and trust. If your branding feels inconsistent, patients may not trust you completely.

Fact: 77% of consumers make purchase decisions based on brand familiarity

3. Start with a Clear Vision and Solid Business Plan

A thriving practice starts with a blueprint. A strong business plan defines your goals for growth, marketing, and operations.

Pro tip: Practices with written plans are 30% more likely to grow than those without one.[Source]

4. Build a Team Patients Love

Your team members, front desk staff, hygienists, and assistants shape the patient experience. Hire for skill and personality, and invest in training so your staff can confidently deliver outstanding care.

5. Use Smart Digital Marketing to Attract Patients

If you’re not visible online, you’re invisible to patients. Use:

Local SEO (“dentist near me” keywords)
AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) to appear in voice searches and quick-answer boxes
GEO (Geo-targeted Optimization) to strengthen visibility across map listings and hyperlocal searches
Social Media (smile transformations, behind-the-scenes)
Referral Programs (reward loyal patients)
Testimonials & Reviews (real patient stories build credibility and trust)

6. Make Every Visit Comfortable and Stress-Free

Patients remember how you make them feel. From friendly greetings to comfort touches like heated chairs or Netflix on the ceiling, little details reduce anxiety and create loyal patients.

7. Manage Finances Like a Business Owner

Track expenses, monitor cash flow, and negotiate overhead (leases, supplies). Set aside funds for reinvestment, tech upgrades, marketing, and training pay off long term.

8. Embrace Technology to Stay Ahead

Digital X-rays, intraoral cameras, and teledentistry aren’t optional, they’re expected. Modern technology signals professionalism and improves patient care.

9. Keep Learning and Stay Compliant

Stay ahead of industry trends, OSHA rules, and HIPAA guidelines. Invest in continuing education for yourself and your team.

10. Systematize for Smooth Operations

Document processes for everything: new patient onboarding, emergency handling, insurance workflows. Clear systems save time, reduce mistakes, and make scaling easier.

Starting a Dental Practice Checklist for New Owners

Before thinking about growth, you need to cover the essentials. Consider this your starting a dental practice checklist, a roadmap that helps you build a strong foundation.

Location Matters: Patients value convenience. Being close to neighborhoods, workplaces, or community landmarks makes your office a go-to choice.
Budgeting & Financing: Factor in loans, personal investment, and credit card support to cover at least 3–5 years.
Legal & Compliance: Licenses, insurance, OSHA, and HIPAA compliance must be handled before opening.
Technology Investments: Practice management software and electronic health records streamline operations and improve the patient experience.

Buying a Dental Practice or Starting From Scratch

Every dentist faces this question: take over an existing practice or build one from the ground up? The choice shapes your growth, risks, and long-term vision.

Buying a Dental Practice: You gain instant access to patients, trained staff members, and existing infrastructure. The challenge? Evaluating financial health and upgrading systems, if the practice is dated.
Starting a Dental Practice from Scratch: You control everything, the culture, technology, branding but you’ll need to build visibility and patient trust from the ground up.

Both routes work. The right decision depends on your long-term vision and financial flexibility.

FAQs About Running a Dental Practice in Tennessee

1. How do I start attracting new patients to my dental practice?

Start by improving local SEO so patients find you when searching for ‘dentist in Murfreesboro,’ while also optimizing for AEO to appear in voice searches and GEO to strengthen visibility across map listings and neighborhood-specific searches.Share useful dental tips on social media, encourage reviews, and offer referral programs. Participating in community events like the Main Street Saturday Market builds trust and visibility.

2. How much does it cost to start a dental practice in Tennessee?

On average, it costs between $350,000 and $500,000 to start a dental practice in Tennessee. This includes build-out, dental equipment, software, marketing, and insurance. A solid financial plan and multiple funding options are essential.

3. How do I keep my patients coming back?

Retention is all about trust and comfort. Make the experience pleasant with friendly staff and minimal wait times. Send reminders for checkups, offer simple membership plans for uninsured patients, and communicate treatment plans in clear, patient-friendly language. Adding personal touches like thank-you notes can also make a big difference.

Building the Practice You’ve Always Wanted

Running a dental practice is a blend of clinical expertise and business acumen. Whether you’re building from scratch or purchasing an existing office, the formula for success is the same: prioritize patients, build strong systems, and commit to continuous improvement.

If you’re ready to take your dental practice to the next level, Dr. Nate Schott’s team in Murfreesboro, Tennessee is here to help. Book your consultation at our Murfreesboro office today and discover how we keep Tennessee smiling!