What is or is not appropriate for a practice can depend on demographics, or simply the image the practice owner wishes to convey. If needed tattoos can be covered and facial piercings removed while at work. Excessive jewelry, super-long nails, and heavy perfumes should also be avoided. Tattoos can be covered and facial piercings removed while at work.   Kevin Tighe, Cambridge Dental Consultants, Senior Consultant, got bitten hard by the business and marketing bug during long summer days working at his dad's Madison Avenue ad agency. After joining Cambridge as a seminarist in the mid-1990s, Kevin went on to become Cambridge’s senior...

1. Patients' needs are our top priority. You must leave your personal issues and opinions outside of the office. Patients visit our office to improve their health and eliminate pain. An atmosphere of warmth, cheerfulness and caring must be conveyed. Indifference to patients' problems will not contribute to this atmosphere. Remember patients' names and use them often when talking with the patients. Refer to the patient as "Mr.," "Mrs.,” "Miss," or "Ms.," unless the patient invites you to use their first name. Do not give patients nicknames or refer to them as "Hon," "Darlin," or other pet names. 2. Your statements...

Staff non compliance and double work are production killers. Only surround yourself with "A"and "B" type staff and ensure there is accountability. Examples of double work:  Lab case not in the office. Patient arrives for appointment. Incomplete information in patient charts. Incomplete insurance submission. Insurance not verified. Patient leaves the office without an appointment. Phone numbers for patient are not correct.  Appointment not confirmed.  Delivering more dentistry in the back then was scheduled; front desk not notified. Treatment plan sequence not written up. Financial arrangements not made. Incomplete treatment not followed up on. Message taken but not given to the correct...

Your confirmation system should be tailored to each type of patient and have a personal touch.