Have you noticed any corporate dentistry chains popping up around your town? This form of dental practice has experienced a rapid growth in recent years, and some small businesses can’t compete with the flashy marketing of a large corporation. If you’ve recently moved to a new area or have decided to look for a new dentist, you may wonder whether you ought to select a corporate dentistry chain or a private dental practice. Although they typically provide the same services, these two options differ in a variety of ways. We’re clearly biased, but we truly believe that you should patronize one of the private dental practices in your area. In doing so, you can improve your dental experience, support local people, and even help your community.
Why Choose a Private Dental Practice?
Personalized Care That Puts Patients First
At a first-rate private dental practice, the focus is on the well-being of the patients and the staff members. The staff members aren’t worried about fulfilling quotas or meeting corporate requirements, so they’re able to create a harmony between their patients’ care and their practice’s goals. In many private dental offices, this results in a warmer and friendlier atmosphere – which is especially helpful for patients who experience dental anxiety.
There is less staff turnover at private practices as well, and the dentist, hygienists, and staff members will likely remember you from visit to visit. Not only will your dentist know your name and the last time you visited, but he or she will also understand your specific concerns and any past dental problems you’ve experienced. If you enjoy a high level of personalized care, a private dental practice is a great option for you.
Corporate dental practices, on the other hand, tend to put their business goals at the forefront. Because of this, you may notice that a corporate practice runs like an assembly line. The staff members rarely know patients’ names, and the team is focused on meeting quota-based goals. Some practices may even compromise patient care to “upsell” and push costlier treatment options. It’s also important to note that young dentists, fresh out of school, are often hired by corporate practices. Many of these dentists will eventually move on to a private practice when they have more experience.
Familiar Faces and Non-Rushed Appointments
Because corporate practices typically hire several dentists and many hygienists, you may see a different dentist and hygienist at each appointment. The “dentist du jour” may do things a little differently than the previous dentists you’ve seen. Because your care information will constantly be passed from dentist to dentist, important details may become lost and compromise the service you receive. Furthermore, the higher-ups in the corporation will likely decide how long each appointment may last. Because the dentist doesn’t get to decide how much time each patient needs, you may feel rushed, as though you’re just another box they need to check off in the course of their workday.
Private practices, on the other hand, typically have a limited number of staff members. You will work with one dentist, who will know you personally, and you will likely get to know the hygienists and receptionists as well. Without any corporate rules (created by distant higher-ups) regulating their days, this team can work together to create an efficient, productive schedule that leaves staff members content and patients happy and healthy.
Local Staff Members That Support the Community
Remember that the owner of a corporate dental practice is not a local dentist who lives down the street. While the corporation likely employs some local members of your community, the corporation itself does not have a personal engagement with the culture and people of your neighborhood. This may result in a cold, impersonal approach to practicing dentistry.
A private practice, on the other hand, is owned by a local member of your community who is personally engaged with your area’s culture and people. They may shop at your grocery store, volunteer with the same organization as you, or have kids that attend the same school as your kids. They’re a trusted and active member of the community, and they have pride in being a part of the local fabric. In fact, many local dental practices make it a point to impact their local community by participating in events and making charitable donations.
Remember that private practices have a vested interest in making sure that all patients receive the best care possible. Their goal is to ensure that their patients walk away happy so that they come back whenever they have an emergency or need a routine checkup. They’re focused on quality, not quantity.
Sometimes corporate dental practices offer lower prices than private practices, but that low cost comes at a price. Consider what you’re looking for in terms of service, experience, and local impact before you choose between a private dental practice and a corporation.
And if you’re looking for an experienced, reliable, and friendly dentist near Springfield, Missouri, contact Wilkinson Dental. Dr. Wilkinson and his team will give you the personalized treatment you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. We’ve been a part of the Springfield community for over two decades, and we strive to do our part to keep this community great. For exceptional and comprehensive dental care, schedule your first appointment today by calling 417-708-0556 or requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!