For this week’s webletter, we have the privilege of offering the article “The Hand Off—Don’t Drop the Ball” on how to handle dental patients by MGE client Laura Hatch, MS, Office Manager of Scripps Rock Dental. Since becoming MGE clients in 2003, Laura and Dr. Tony Hatch have actually built two successful practices, starting out with their Maryland office, which…

I want to start this post on the subject of dental problems off by illustrating its primary message. As a dentist, what’s your take on this conversation? Doctor: “Joe (patient), we need to do something about this tooth. I’m concerned that if we don’t treat it now (with a crown, inlay, etc.) we’ll be looking at a root canal in…

Last updated on November 17th, 2025 at 07:45 pm Q: How can I set up my schedule so patients wait no longer than 10 minutes? To ensure that no patient waits longer than 10 minutes requires some planning. First, have a clear idea (and policy for your staff) on how long each of your clinical procedures normally takes. Secondly, I…

Last updated on November 5th, 2025 at 01:37 am Note: This article is directed primarily at the hiring of new dental front desk staff. While some of the information in this article could be applicable for other new staff in the practice (i.e. new dental assistants, etc.), depending on the state you are in, some back office staff may need…

Last updated on November 5th, 2025 at 01:51 am Working in the same environment day after day can, to a degree, numb the senses. I’ll give you an example: Years ago, I noticed a nine-inch stack of files on a co-worker’s desk. It was neatly stacked in the far right-hand corner. We worked together quite a bit, and every few…

How should you determine the right staff complement for your office? When is it time to add a new position instead of making do with what you’ve got? These are important questions to ask because over-hiring can make your overhead go out of control, but on the flip-side, refusing to hire needed positions as you grow will cap your growth…