Tip 1: Verify you have an accurate active patient count. Often the count is greatly inflated. This is less of an issue then in the past due to practice management software. If patient info has been correctly entered for all patients then the active patient count should be good. There are different opinions as to what constitutes an active patient but counting any recall patients going back eighteen months works. Doing so takes into account patients who have slipped off the radar but can be gotten back in.  Tip 2: Has extensive dentistry already been done on most patients? If so, then...

1. Acceptable total A/R: One month of collections or less (12%) 2. A/R & pending claims. 20% over 30 days acceptable and dwindling.  >50% of AR in 0-30 days <30% of AR in 30-60 days <18% of AR in 60-90 days <2% of AR in 90+ days 3. You want to see past due balances of 30, 60, and 90 days so that you can generate the correct letter or call as needed. You should also run an Insurance Aging Report at least weekly because you don't want those going past 30 days. Start collecting after 20 days. I recommend working the...

In the fast-paced world of dentistry, where each minute counts, the mantra "work smarter, not harder" resonates deeply. But what does this truly mean for dental practitioners? Here, we delve into real-world insights from dental professionals, exploring various strategies to enhance efficiency, reduce burnout, and ultimately, increase practice profitability. Transitioning Away from Hygiene DependencyFor those managing multiple hygienists, it might be time to evaluate whether assisted hygiene or reducing hygiene appointments is a better financial fit. Hygiene overhead often comprises a significant percentage of total expenses. Streamlining this aspect of the practice can free up resources and improve profitability. For instance, adopting an...

#10 Dental Analogies: A Collection of Descriptive Dental Analogies Based on Ideas from Practicing Dentists

by Dr. Rick Waters and Dr. Bill Powell