20: The One Time Management Secret That Transformed My Dental Practice
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Time is the one resource we can never get back. In my decades of practicing periodontics
and implant dentistry, I've learned that how we manage time doesn't just affect
our bottom line—it fundamentally shapes the patient experience and defines our
professional integrity. In this episode, I share why running on time isn't just
good practice management; it's a moral imperative that separates exceptional
dental practices from mediocre ones.
I've watched too many colleagues fall into the trap of overbooking, keeping patients
waiting for hours, and treating time as if it's an infinite resource. But
here's the truth: when we disrespect our patients' time, we're telling them
their lives don't matter as much as our convenience. I've built my
fee-for-service practice on a different philosophy—one where punctuality is
non-negotiable and every patient knows they'll be seen when scheduled.
What You'll Learn About Time Management in Dental Practice
The Hidden Cost of Running Late
• How chronic lateness damages patient trust and practice reputation
• Why overbooking creates a cascade of stress for your entire team
• The financial impact of poor time management on practice profitability
My Personal Time Management Philosophy
• How I trained my patients to expect punctuality from day one
• The practice systems I implemented to eliminate chronic delays
• Why arriving early to every commitment changed my professional life
Avoiding Burnout While Respecting Time
• The dangerous trap of being an overachiever who never takes breaks
• How to balance efficiency with self-care and recovery time
• Why respecting your own time is just as important as respecting others'
Transform Your Practice Through Better Time Management
I believe that running on time is one of the most powerful ways to differentiate your
practice in today's competitive dental landscape. When you commit to
punctuality, you're making a statement about your values, your professionalism,
and your respect for the people who trust you with their care. This isn't just
about scheduling efficiency—it's about building a practice culture that honors
time as the precious, finite resource it truly is.
Whether you're a solo practitioner, a practice owner managing multiple providers, or a
dental professional feeling overwhelmed by constant delays, the principles I
share in this episode will help you reclaim control of your schedule and create
a more respectful, efficient practice environment. It really works, and your patients will
notice the difference immediately.
Mentioned in this episode:
Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course
Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!
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