Finding A Location For Your Orthodontic Practice

Your location is a key factor in the success of your practice. It determines the type of office you can establish and the demographics you will serve, so you should make this decision carefully and not rush into it.

So, how do you know which location will be perfect for your dental or orthodontic practice? The answer is not very complex. To prevent the unfortunate experience of making a major mistake and incurring substantial expenses to fix it, it is crucial to thoroughly research and carefully select the orthodontic practice location.

In this article, we will discuss why the location of an orthodontist is important and why it should be a key factor in your decision-making process.

Demographic research helps you identify the individual members of your audience and lets you segment your customers by individual characteristics and needs.

If you try to open a new clinic in an area with high competition, it can be challenging to attract new patients, and this can lead to the failure of your practice before you even have an opportunity to begin.

Finding a location for orthodontic practice in areas where people have limited access to nearby dentists or are avoiding critical dental appointments due to inconvenience can provide them with a more convenient option, especially for people looking for orthodontic treatments.

Take note of the following factors when deciding:

• Median age
• Ethnicity
• Gender
• Average household size
• Households with private insurance
• Population density
• Population growth size
• Medium income

Having this information will help you understand your intended patients and customize your treatments to meet their needs.

When your facility is more accessible to reach, it can be more appealing to your patients. People dislike struggling to reach a business, as it can increase travel time unnecessarily and make the experience stressful.

Easy accessibility ensures that patients can reach your clinic without significant travel inconveniences. A location well-connected to transportation routes and sufficient parking facilities can improve patient satisfaction and increase routine appointments.

Visibility is equally important as it helps potential patients become aware of your clinic’s presence. A visible location, preferably in a high foot traffic area or near other healthcare facilities, increases the chances of attracting new patients. It allows your clinic to stand out and grab the attention of individuals needing orthodontic treatments.

Local zoning laws dictate how properties in a specific area can be used and what types of businesses can operate there. These regulations ensure that the community maintains a balance and appropriate land use. Familiarize yourself with relevant laws to ensure your facility is located where opening a clinic is allowed.

Complying with zoning regulations is crucial to avoid legal complications or the need to relocate your clinic in the future. It is advisable to consult with local authorities or zoning departments to understand the requirements and restrictions of operating an orthodontic clinic in the desired location.

Another crucial factor is understanding the required space for your newly established orthodontist facility.

Are you an existing practice that is moving to a new location? If yes, consider the number of patients you currently serve and the number of partners and staff members in your practice. Are you aiming to expand and attract more patients? If so, you should search for a location that can physically accommodate your needs.

If you’re starting a new practice, what are your growth expectations? It’s vital to estimate growth and plan accordingly. If you choose a location for orthodontic practice that is too small, you might need to relocate sooner than expected.

Conduct a cost analysis for leasing or purchasing your orthodontist clinic when choosing your new location. Take the time to evaluate how much of your business budget is for a commercial lease or buying a property.

It is important to be practical and realistic about your financial capabilities. Falling in love with a location that exceeds your affordability can have negative consequences. Carefully assess your budget and make informed decisions based on what you can comfortably afford for your orthodontist practice.

Make sure to evaluate your chosen location and assess all the associated risks. Check the potential property’s existing security features and discuss with the property owner the possibility of installing security cameras, implementing security gates, or making other upgrades to improve safety.

Furthermore, the overall safety of the surrounding area should be evaluated. Some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates than others. If your business location is situated in an area with higher crime rates, it is crucial to take necessary precautions to prevent theft or property damage. Prioritize the safety of your business and take appropriate measures to mitigate potential risks.

Choosing the right location for your orthodontic practice can make or break its success. It can determine whether your business succeeds, generates substantial income that enables early retirement, or faces financial difficulties and potential bankruptcy, depleting your savings.

By carefully evaluating each aspect mentioned above, you can make a well-informed decision regarding the optimal location for your orthodontic practice. It is important to note that there is no perfect business location, and compromises are inevitable. Therefore, carefully consider your options, weigh the pros and cons, and choose the location that best suits the specific needs of your practice.

Your business location can majorly impact your bottom line, so it’s important to carefully consider all the factors when finding orthodontic practice location. If you’re still unsure about which location is right for your orthodontic clinic, don’t worry. We can help!

Our expert consultants understand the unique and complex criteria to consider when choosing a location for your dental practice. With decades of firsthand knowledge, we can help you determine the best location for the success of your dental practice.

Contact us today to learn how our experience can make your search process hassle-free.