Starting a dental practice comes with its share of challenges. You’ll need to make a business plan, choose the perfect location, and secure financing. Consider the legal aspects, too.
Research the different types of dental products before drafting your business plan. This will not determine how much space you need but also make it easier to budget your expenses.
First, try to cover the basics. Look for a dental chair, dental utility equipment, operating lights, and other accessories. As your practice grows, you may also invest in an X-ray machine. Having quality dental instruments and consumables is just as important.
Interested to find out more? Here are a few must-haves for your dental clinic!
Dental Patient Chairs
Look for a sturdy dental chair with or without a dental unit. Some models are pretty basic, while others have a control panel, LED lamps, multiple hoses, and other accessories. You may also opt for a portable dental chair unit, as it’s easier to move around and has a lower price tag.
Expect to pay anywhere between $1,000 and $15,000 for a new dental chair. If you’re on a budget, choose a basic model and upgrade later on. Another option is to purchase a used dental chair.
Dental Lights
These standard fixtures are a must-have in any dental practice. Depending on the model, you can mount them on the ceiling, walls, cabinets, or delivery systems. Generally, cabinet and wall-mount lights offer more flexibility than other models.
As far as pricing goes, it’s possible to get a basic dental lamp for $800 or $900. More advanced models cost at least $5,000, but these usually come with a monitor, camera, and other accessories.
Pliers and Other Dental Instruments
Most dentists use dozens of tools to perform their work. Your dental practice will need an examination mirror, probes, pliers, turbines, and other instruments, such as:
- Dental forceps
- Straight and contra-angle handpieces
- Electric waxer for prosthetics
- Air polishers
- Ultrasonic cleaners
- Motorized suction units
- Water distiller
- Pulp tester
Ideally, choose electric handpiece systems rather than air-driven devices. Electric handpieces are much faster and may allow you to do your work with greater accuracy. They also produce less noise compared to their air-driven counterparts.
Dental Consumables
Any dental office needs bonding agents, composites, syringes, disposable gloves, and other consumables. These supplies can be found online on websites like Primo Dental Products. Most times, it’s cheaper to buy them over the Internet than visit a physical store.
Make a list of dental supplies and update it as needed. Note that most retailers offer discounts for larger orders.
Invest in Quality Dental Products to Make Your Practice Stand Out
The last thing you want when you open a dental clinic is to get negative reviews from patients. Simple things, such as investing in an ergonomic dental chair, can make all the difference.
Quality dental products are not always expensive. The key is to shop around and keep an eye on the latest deals.
Meanwhile, see the rest of our blog for other tips on how to grow your dental practice! We’ll show you how to promote your services, what to expect when you’re just getting started, and much more!