Define Your Vision and Business Plan

• Clarify your goals (boutique vs. insurance-based)
• Research demographics and competition
• Create a financial model with projections
• Prepare a lender-ready business plan
• Hire a project manager…they will help you with everything listed above and below

Choose the Right Location

• Decide lease vs. purchase
• Ensure accessibility and visibility
• Plan square footage based on business plan and growth
• Check potential for expansion

Secure Financing

• Get pre-approval from dental lenders
• Budget for $650k–$950k startup costs (depending on specialty)
• Maintain 3–6 months operating reserves

Negotiate Lease or Purchase Agreement

• Review exclusivity, renewal, assignability, monetary terms
• Check dental-specific needs (plumbing, electrical, signage)
• Hire a dental real estate specialist for review

Design and Build Your Office

• Plan workflow-driven design
• Prioritize patient experience
• Ensure ADA, OSHA, and state compliance
• Allow 6–12 months for completion

Select Equipment and Technology

• Order chairs, cabinetry, sterilizers, radiography
• Consider digital dentistry upgrades
• Choose practice management software

Build Your Team

• Hire office manager, hygienist, assistants, front desk
• Focus on cultural alignment
• Provide training and CE opportunities

Develop Your Marketing Plan

• Create logo, website, and brand identity – coordinate with design
• Set up Google Business Profile & SEO
• Engage in community outreach

Ensure Legal and Regulatory Compliance

• Obtain dental license, DEA registration, radiation certification
• Set up malpractice, liability, and workers’ comp insurance
• Implement HIPAA and OSHA compliance training

Launch and Grow

• Plan a soft opening with friends/family
• Host a grand opening event
• Track KPIs (flow, production, case acceptance)
• Refine systems with data and feedback