We built it all from scratch – an exciting squat practice in a shell and core premises of a brand-new development. It is the first squat practice we have built, so this was a new and unique experience for us.
My wife and I wanted to establish a family-run practice that could expand her patient base and allow her to perform effective care in a business led by her own priorities. I am a business lawyer by day, so I oversaw any business and building-related matters during the set-up. Oana, of course, led the planning of the surgeries whilst balancing her time with work in other practices.
Aiming high
With a business plan in place and suitable location found, we were able to get started. We aimed high and envisioned a practice that would rise above the others, aiming to be amongst the top dental practices in London. After all, why not aim to be the very best? As a family-owned business we had to work with a smaller budget than some other competitors, but we were confident we could achieve our goals.
We wanted to create a space that had a relaxed, spa-like design that made patients feel welcomed when visiting the dentist, forgoing any all-too-common anxieties. We have high ceilings and large windows on each exterior wall throughout the building, making the practice feel open and inviting. In the reception we chose materials like wood for warmth, glass for transparency and plenty of plants for a fresh and homely atmosphere as soon as a patient walks through the door.
While still working on the practice, every day passers-by would come in and ask what the building was going to be. When we said a dental practice instead of a restaurant, they could not quite believe us! This relates our vision for the patient experience we wanted to create and the extreme attention to detail we committed to it.
Our clinical space was designed with practicality in mind, first and foremost. The care that would be provided within our practice was considered first, and equipment choices and placements were made with efficient workflows in mind. Aesthetically, we kept the room as light as possible, with colour in the floor and chair to curate another bright and welcoming space.
The best equipment for the job
Choosing the right supplier for our practice equipment was vital, and I am delighted we worked with Clark Dental. I like to meet several potential suppliers, ask for quotes, and go forward from there. We wanted to work with people who actively listened to us, rather than passing us between an infinite number of internal departments for equipment acquisition or to solve a problem.
We met with Matt Rowlingson and immediately knew that Clark Dental was the right fit for us. Matt agreed with Oana and I that the process relied on an understanding and communicative working relationship. Where other suppliers seemed to prioritise their profit margins without fully understanding the equipment, Clark Dental wanted to make sure we knew all our options at each and every step.
When choosing our clinical equipment, we leaned into our own research. We knew the Dentsply Sirona Intego treatment centre very well, and had visited showrooms to see it up close. Matt and the team at Clark Dental provided immense advice for each of our queries regarding the equipment we were choosing. They offered completely objective recommendations, covering everything from the air compressor and decontamination equipment, to the x-ray unit and handpieces. Their sincerity made a big difference, and it stuck with us.
Putting it into practice
Installation day came and went extremely quickly. We kept all areas clean and clear of other tradesmen, allowing two days to complete the process. In the end, we needed just half a day.
Clear communication allowed us to effectively manage any potential roadblocks throughout the project. I would contact Matt Rowlingson from Clark Dental, long ahead of a deadline, but he was always quick to respond. It never felt as though I was chasing information or needing to alter plans to accommodate any last-minute changes.
Of course, building our practice had its challenges. After the coronavirus pandemic and Brexit, we never expected the process to be smooth sailing. Instead, we adjusted our timelines and increased our investment, but the results were worth any moment of struggle or stress.
In the end, the practice is everything we wanted. Following our designs with the help of Clark Dental meant we could take on the best changes and advice, such as minor alternations to our original suction pipe or chair placements, without having to compromise on our overall vision.
Reflecting on the process
Establishing a squat practice is immensely rewarding. With the right skills and knowledge, and the investment to match, you can achieve success and fulfil your dreams. The most important part, though, is the people around you. Whether it is for construction roles, or equipment suppliers, having people you can trust and communicate freely with is essential. There is a lot at stake, and exceptional judgement will go a long way.
Finally, if you aim to deliver the highest standard of care from your dental practice, why would you cut corners? From the design stages, to the construction process and acquiring equipment, you should not settle for second best. Find professionals that know what they are doing and have ideals aligned with your own, and watch your dreams take shape.
Knowing that we already have an excellent relationship with Clark Dental, I am sure we will soon return to work with them moving forward.
When we began this long process, Oana and I could not have anticipated each and every turn in the road, but we are glad we surrounded ourselves with brilliant help.
