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Dental Squat Practice

Nov 15

Practice By Design Event a Resounding Success

By Blog, NEWS

A windy day in Weybridge saw us welcome a group of aspiring dentists and industry leaders to our recent Practice By Design day.

Participants were treated to a compelling introduction from Blueprint Dental’s Co-founder Sharaz Mir showing the vital steps and experience needed to embarck on a successful squat practice project.

 

Coupled with sessions from a plethora of industry experts covering areas as diverse as accountancy and finance to CQC compliance and best practices in decontamination, the day equipped delegates with tools and tips needed to start their own journey to owning and running their own dental squat practice.

PracticeBy Design-Sharaz
PracticeByDesign_Matt

”Keep up the amazing courses!

Course ParticipantPractice By Design - November 2023

“We were privileged to have so much talent from the UK dental industry under one roof for this event,” said Sharaz Mir, Blueprint’s Co-founder. “The day went really well and we have received some cracking feedback, so watch this space for more CPD-accredited courses for dentists.

“Special thanks to all our speakers and the team at Dentsply Sirona in Weybridge for hosting us.”

PRACTICE BY DESIGN - SABA

 

As well as benefitting from the open classroom-style sessions with experts in their own field, the day offered an excellent opportunity for dentists to see and experience a wide range of dental equipment used in new squat practices.

The Blueprint Dental team were on hand throughout to demonstrate and discuss every equipment need from dental chairs and Treatment Centres, to Intra Oral Scanners and CBCT systems for cutting edge imaging and diagnosis used in today’s digital dentistry workflows.

And there’s more…

We’re planning on running similar courses in Spring 2024. If you’re interested in finding out more, please complete the form below.

If you have a query or would like to find out more about our events, please complete the form below and we'll be right back in touch. Or call us on 0800 228 9828...

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Sep 29
Tomosharp_Panoramic_Dental_X-ray

Elevate Your Dental Practice with 3D CBCT Imaging: Why It’s the Ultimate Choice Over 2D Panoramic X-rays

By Blog

Why 3D CBCT Extraoral X-ray should be the technology of choice, even as an entry level option.

 

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital dentistry, staying up-to-date with the latest technology is crucial to provide patients with the best possible care. One such advancement that has transformed the field is Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), a three-dimensional extraoral X-ray imaging technology. 

While 2D panoramic X-rays have long been a staple in dentistry, the advantages offered by 3D CBCT make it the technology of choice, even for entry-level scanning. 

In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why 3D CBCT should be your preferred imaging technology in the realm of digital dentistry, even if it’s your first foray into panoramic imaging.

1.  Superior Diagnostic Precision

One of the primary reasons to opt for 3D CBCT over 2D panoramic X-rays is the superior diagnostic precision it offers. Unlike 2D images that provide a flat representation of oral structures, CBCT scans generate detailed, three-dimensional images that allow dentists to view anatomical structures from various angles. This enhanced perspective is invaluable when planning complex procedures like implant placement, orthodontic treatment or assessing impacted teeth.

CBCT image of impacted canines
Dentist with patient CBCT 3D scan

2. Enhanced Treatment Planning

3D CBCT technology also enables dentists to plan treatments with unparalleled accuracy. By visualising the exact dimensions and relationships of teeth, bones, nerves and soft tissues in 3D, clinicians can create precise treatment plans, reducing the margin for error. This level of precision leads to improved outcomes and patient satisfaction.

3. Reduced Radiation Exposure

Concerns about radiation exposure are common in dental imaging. And rightly so.

3D CBCT addresses this concern by delivering lower doses of radiation compared to traditional CT scans. This makes it a safer option for patients, particularly for routine imaging needs, and aligns with the principles of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) radiation exposure.

CBCT image - Patient and operator Radiation Safety

4. Efficient Workflow

Time is money in a dental practice, and 3D CBCT technology can significantly streamline your workflow. CBCT scans provide immediate results, eliminating the need for time-consuming film development. The digital nature of CBCT also enables easy storage, retrieval and sharing of patient records, reducing administrative burdens.

5. Expanded Diagnostic Capabilities

3D CBCT isn’t just limited to dental applications. It can be used to diagnose conditions beyond the oral cavity, such as sinus problems, temporomandibular joint disorders and airway assessments. Offering these expanded diagnostic capabilities can attract new patients and enhance your practice’s reputation for comprehensive care.

CBCT Cyst image
Dentsply Sirona Axeos 3D Dental X-ray

6. Competitive Advantage

In the highly competitive field of dentistry, staying ahead of the curve can give your practice a significant edge. Embracing 3D CBCT technology demonstrates your commitment to providing the best possible care to your patients. It can also attract referrals from other dental professionals seeking your expertise in 3D imaging.

7. Future-proofing your practice

Digital dentistry is continuously evolving and 3D CBCT is at the forefront of these advancements. By investing in this technology now, you are future-proofing your practice. As new software updates and applications become available, you can seamlessly integrate them into your workflow, staying at the forefront of your field.

Carestream CS8200 CBCT

3D CBCT technology is not just reserved for advanced or specialist practices. It offers clear advantages even for entry-level scanning needs. From superior diagnostic precision and enhanced treatment planning to reduced radiation exposure and efficient workflows, the benefits of 3D CBCT are undeniable. 

At Blueprint Dental, we’ve helped many practices adopt digital imaging technologies and workflows and our specialist digital teams will guide you every step of the way from initial discussions around which 3D CBCT best suits your practice’s needs to installation and training – ensuring both you and your patients get the most out of you new investment.

We represent some of the world’s leading dental 3D CBCT equipment brands , including the Dentsply Sirona Axeos 3d Scanner and the Carestream Dental range of 3D extraoral scanners.

By choosing 3D CBCT as your extraoral X-ray imaging technology of choice, you are not only elevating your practice but also providing the best possible care to your patients in the world of digital dentistry. 

Embrace the future today and watch your practice thrive!

For for information, please complete the form below and we'll be right back or call us today on 0800 228 9828...

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Aug 16
Project Management for new dental practice

Bridging the Gap between Dentistry and Construction

By Uncategorized

When it comes to realising your vision of a dream dental practice which has been ideally crafted to suit your unique needs, there are several approaches to the construction process that need to be considered at length. Once you’ve embarked on a set path it’s costly and time consuming to suddenly change direction, so you must do your homework, take references and make informed decisions from day one. Once you commit yourself to a construction method you must be sure that the process you have chosen is the one most suited to your requirements.

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Building_Plans

Dentists have several options open to them.

They can refurbish their current practice, but due to the space available and the necessity to treat existing patients this will always impose limitations.

Alternatively, they can purchase a new site and complete the fit out works before moving their staff and equipment across. This is obviously the best scenario, but finding a new building within your current catchment area may not be possible, indeed you may already own the freehold of your practice or be tied into a long lease.

This is why every project will need a bespoke solution.

The DIY Approach

Think of it as doing a dental procedure on yourself by looking in a mirror; it may look like an easy job in the beginning, but once you start it soon becomes apparent that it’s far from simple.

By designing your own practice and project managing the construction phase using local tradesmen, dentists will undoubtedly save money at the front end. However, on reflection this can be a potential minefield, full of divided responsibility issues and potentially unreliable tradesmen, which can lead to significant project delays. It will require your undivided attention to make sure things are running smoothly on site and that the relevant materials have arrived on time. If they haven’t, or a particular trade has overrun on the project, the tradesmen coming in later in the schedule can be delayed and before you know it your time scales have slipped and your costs are spiralling.

Have you, as a dentist, the experience required to design the building? Are you up to date with the correct commercial fire regulations? Do you have a detailed knowledge of your plumbing and power requirements? Have you worked with the correct spatial requirements required for DDA approvals?

And these considerations are just the tip of the iceberg. You will still need to deal with building control, file correct risk assessments and health and safety information and be responsible for all the CDM’s on the site.

It is not reasonable to expect a dental professional to master the skills of design and construction overnight and the time you spend sat at a drawing board trying to rectifying costly mistakes, could be better spent working on ways to improve patient outcomes and maximise profits for your dental business.

Tradesman_Interior_Decorator
Tradesman_Electrician
Quantity_Surveyor

In reality, the sensible decision of which procurement route to take comes down to two very different choices.

Either “The Architectural Route” ie. adopt the traditional Architect, Quantity Surveyor (QS), tender and local builder route

or

“The Design and Build Route” ie. appoint a one stop shop design and build company – and preferably one with plenty of experience in building new dental practices.

1. The Architectural Route

Dentists may well know an architect or be recommended to one by a friend or colleague. Undoubtedly, they may enjoy the experience of working with an individual who is both creative and passionate about their design. Consider, however, that in most cases the building you are fitting out is already in existence. Therefore, do you need the services of someone who specialises in new building construction, or are you actually employing the services of an interior designer at a qualified architects rates? That said, this tried and tested approach to construction should mean that a dentist can be sure he or she gets the best value for money when the project is sent out to tender.

Or do they ?

A recent survey carried out by a leading London Surveyors stated that, on average, most final accounts on tendered projects end up being 20% higher than the initial contract value. This is because main contractors are often seasoned players in the market and know that to win a project via a tender they must keep their prices low at the outset. There is certainly no advantage to highlight any design issues or omissions in the original scope of works. They are far more likely to seize the opportunity of claiming for extras on every alteration to the original design. Once a contractor is on site it is very difficult for the client to argue over additional fees as they may well be holding up future works and therefore haemorrhaging money at both ends of the project.

Undeniably, working with some architects can be very rewarding if this is your preferred route and is indeed suited to large corporate construction where all parties understand how the process works. Each player will have a full team of experts behind them and play the contractual game until a settlement is reached. This however does not suit the individual practitioner, who neither has the time or money to play this expensive game. It is worth noting at this point that if you decide to appoint an Architect, insist that their fee is not based on a percentage of the project value, as there seems little incentive for the Architect to try to reduce costs on your behalf.

Other issues to consider are who will project manage your job? Will it be the responsibility of your Architect, your QS, or you ? Who will make sure the latest health and safety regulations are adhered to etc?

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Construction_Drawings
Builders_on_Site
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2. The Design & Build Route

Deciding to use an experienced design and build company to handle the whole project could be a far safer option.

With the dentist working closely with the designers, it is far more likely that a design solution will be found that not only works from the dentist’s logistical movement, but also within his or her budgetary requirements. This is achieved by the design team working alongside their estimating team from conception, building up the design around the dentist’s requirements and budget.

Only when the dentist is happy that all concerns have been satisfied and needs met, will the company begin construction. The dentist knows who is ultimately responsible for producing the approved design within the agreed budget and that all the responsibility for the project is down to one company. This in turn speeds up the whole project, because everyone involved is reading from the same page, making completion of the project on time and within budget much easier.

So, when selecting any contractor try and choose an expert in construction. Many equipment suppliers work very closely with dedicated healthcare build teams, who have extensive knowledge of the market, so it is best to take advice or recommendations from them in the first instance.  You will be safe in the knowledge that the equipment suppliers have worked with the contractors previously making project management much simpler and smoother.

It is far more prudent to select your equipment from your chosen supplier and then work with a building company that does not try and sell dental equipment or cabinetry. This way you are safe in the knowledge you are employing an expert and not a “jack of all trades.”

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To find out more about how Blueprint Dental can help you with your construction project, call us now on 0800 228 9828 or simply complete the form below...

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Aug 15
Wimpole-Street-surgery

Practice By Design Event

By No Comments

November 2 @ 08:30 – 16:00

A one day event detailing the entire process of designing/building/refurbishing and equipping a dental practice, be it a squat/new build.

Free Although this event is free, we do ask that participants register, as numbers are limited. Thank you.

This event is free of charge for dentists aspiring to set up their own new/squat practice and will include sessions led by some of the UK’s leading dental experts, covering all aspects of a new practice project, from concept to compliance, including the opportunity to learn from an inspirational clinician who has ‘walked the walk’.

Can’t make this one? Not to worry…Please just drop us a line here and we’ll let you know when our next Practice By Design event will be.

Outline Agenda

8:30AM – 9:00AM Registration & Coffee

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM The Process of Design / Build & Procurement, Sharaz Mir

Sharaz Mir, Founder and Sales Director of Blueprint Dental, will kick off the event detailing the process of designing, building, and equipping the practice of your dreams. We will cover timelines, guides and costing a typical practice.

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM Bob The Builder, Sam Zaidi

Excel Contractors provide the highest quality construction services – including project management, construction management and consulting throughout the UK.

11:00 AM – 11:20 AM Coffee Break

11:20 AM – 11:50 AM IT Solutions, Philippa Van Wyk

Philippa Van Wyck is Corporate Business Manager at Microminder, the UK’s largest Dental IT solutions providers.

11:50 AM – 12:20 PM Financial Considerations, Matt Shelper

Matt Shelper of Vector Finance will discuss the differing funding options and processes available to you help facilitate your project build and equipment purchases.

12:20 PM – 12:40 PM QUICK Q&A

12:40 PM – 1:50 PM Showcase Lunch – Product/Workflow Demonstrations

The Dentsply Sirona /Blueprint Teams will be on hand to offer product and workflow demonstrations of equipment for your new practice.

1:50 PM – 2:20 PM Decontamination Compliance, Pete Gibbons

Pete Gibbons of Melag will discuss the latest regulations and product requirements for your new Decontamination Room.

2:20 PM – 2:50 PM Accounting for it, Aloysius Castellino

T G Associates is a member of NASDAL (National Association of Specialist Dental Accountants and Lawyers) and Aloysius specialises in the dental and healthcare sector.

2:50 PM – 3:20 PM My Way, Dr Sofina Ahmed

Her extraordinary 3 year growth story from a single squat night time only practice to a group of 13 centres employing 70 dentists and 150 total staff is not only remarkable but also highly inspirational in the lessons we can all learn.

3:20 PM – 3:50 PM CQC Application/Compliance Process, Saba Arif

Saba Arif of Smart Dental Compliance will guide you through the journey of Dental Compliance, CQC applications and ongoing support.

4:00 PM FINAL Q&A

Sharaz Mir

Dentsply Sirona

The Heights, Brooklands
Weybridge, KT13 0NY United Kingdom + Google Map
Register now
Aug 03
Dental compressors and suction units

Dental Suction Units and Dental Compressors: Worth the investment?

By Blog

Modern dentistry is fast-paced and in today’s busy dental surgery, efficiency and patient comfort are paramount. Dental suction units and compressors are often overlooked, but they play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations in dental surgeries. Investing in good quality plant equipment is not just a matter of convenience; it is a key aspect of running a successful dental business. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of dental suction units and dental compressors and why they are worth the investment.

The Role of Dental Suction Units

Dental suction units are essential pieces of equipment in any dental practice. Their primary function is to remove excess fluids, debris and saliva from the patient’s mouth during dental procedures. They ensure a clear field of vision for the dentist, allowing them to work efficiently and accurately.

High-quality dental suction units boast strong suction power, low noise levels and efficient filtering systems. Investing in a top-notch suction unit ensures optimal patient comfort, as it minimizes the chances of choking or gag reflex activation. Moreover, it enhances infection control by limiting the spread of aerosols, providing a safer environment for both patients and dental professionals alike.

  • Durr VS
  • Cattani_Suction
  • Cattani AC100
  • Duerr compressor Duo Tandem
  • Duerr Primo Compressor

The Importance of Dental Compressors

Dental compressors, or dental air compressors, are equally vital components of a dental surgery’s equipment. They provide the necessary pressurised air for various dental instruments, including dental handpieces, air syringes and air scalers. Without a reliable compressor, these instruments would not function properly, leading to inefficient procedures and prolonged treatment times.

A good quality dental compressor ensures a consistent supply of dry and oil-free compressed air, preventing contamination of dental instruments and minimizing the risk of infections. A dependable compressor also reduces maintenance costs, as it minimises the wear and tear on dental tools, extending their lifespan significantly.

Why Invest in Good Quality Plant Equipment?

  1. Enhanced Patient Experience: High-quality dental suction units and compressors contribute to a positive patient experience. Patients are more likely to return to a dental practice where they felt comfortable and received efficient, gentle care.
  2. Improved Efficiency: Dental surgeries equipped with reliable plant equipment can complete procedures quickly and accurately. This efficiency allows dentists to see more patients, ultimately boosting the practice’s revenue and reputation.
  3. Infection Control and Safety: Investing in top-notch equipment ensures superior infection control, safeguarding both patients and dental staff from potential health risks. Maintaining a sterile environment is especially crucial in light of recent global health challenges.
  4. Long-Term Cost Savings: While the initial investment in quality dental suction units and compressors may be higher, the long-term cost savings are significant. Reliable equipment requires less frequent repairs and replacements, reducing operational costs in the long run.
  5. Professional Image: High-quality plant equipment reflects the professionalism and commitment to excellence of a dental practice. It instils confidence in patients, making them more likely to recommend the practice to others.
Duerr compressor Duo Tandem

To summarise, dental suction units and dental compressors may not be the most glamorous aspects of a dental practice, but they are undoubtedly its beating heart. By investing in good quality plant equipment, dental professionals can significantly enhance patient experience, optimise workflow and ensure the safety and satisfaction of both patients and staff.

The benefits of such investments are far-reaching and contribute to the long-term success of any dental business. So, when it comes to selecting dental equipment, remember that quality is an investment that yields valuable returns in the form of efficiency, safety and patient satisfaction.

Here at Blueprint Dental, we offer a full range of dental compressors and suction units from some of the world’s leading dental plant brands like Duerr and Cattani. Whether you’re looking for a single and multi-surgery configuration, please get in contact and we’ll work with you to specify and install the best solution for you and your business.

To find out more simply complete the form below or call us on 0800 228 9828

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Jun 30
Axano_DreamSmile_2

The Significance of Architectural Design in Establishing a Dental Squat Practice

By Blog

When embarking on the exciting journey of setting up a dental squat practice, it is crucial to recognise the significant role that architectural design plays in creating a functional, aesthetically pleasing and patient-friendly environment. A well-designed dental practice not only enhances the overall patient experience, but also contributes to the efficiency and productivity of the dental team. In this article, we will explore the importance of architectural design in establishing a dental squat practice and the key considerations to keep in mind during the design process.

Optimal Space Utilisation

Efficient space utilisation is a fundamental aspect of dental practice design. An architectural designer experienced in dental surgery design can help maximise the use of available space, ensuring that each area within the practice serves its purpose effectively. Properly designed treatment rooms, reception areas, waiting rooms, decontamination areas and staff spaces contribute to the smooth flow of operations, minimising disruptions and enhancing productivity.

DDA compliance must also be achieved, ensuring minimal corridor and floor widths and sufficient space around dental chairs and in reception areas.

  • Dental Surgery Plan
  • Dental Surgery Room Layout drawing
 
 
 
 
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Patient Experience and Comfort

Creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for patients is paramount in a dental practice. Architectural design elements such as natural lighting, pleasing colour schemes, comfortable seating and thoughtful spatial arrangements can significantly impact the patient experience.

Well-designed waiting areas that provide privacy, entertainment options and a calming atmosphere help alleviate anxiety and promote a positive perception of the practice.

Equally a well designed reception area needs to be functional, ergonomic and practical for your front of house team, so they are able to interact with patients both at the beginning and end of their visit in a professional, efficient and caring way.

Infection Control and Safety

Maintaining a clean and safe environment is of utmost importance in a dental practice. An architect well-versed in dental decontamination workflows can incorporate appropriate infection control measures into the layout and design. This includes proper room ventilation (actually needed across the whole practice, of course!), strategic placement of handwashing facilities, dedicated spaces for sterilisation equipment and the seamless integration of infection control protocols throughout the practice. Attention to these details helps protect both patients and staff from potential health risks.

Wimpole-Street-Decon-Area
Primescan Connect Workflow

Ergonomics and Workflow Efficiency

Efficient workflow and ergonomic design are essential for the well-being and productivity of the dental team. An architect with expertise in dental practice design can create ergonomic workspaces, ensuring that treatment rooms, dental chairs and equipment are strategically positioned for ease of use. Thoughtful consideration of workflow patterns and the placement of essential tools and supplies within reach can minimise unnecessary movements, reducing strain and fatigue for dental professionals.

Future Growth and Adaptability

Anticipating future growth and allowing for flexibility in the design is crucial when setting up a dental squat practice. A skilled architect can help plan the layout and design to accommodate potential expansion, technological advancements, and changes in the scope of services offered. By considering future needs during the initial design phase, it becomes easier and more cost-effective to adapt the practice as it evolves.

Architectural design plays a pivotal role in establishing a successful dental squat practice. It not only influences the aesthetics, but also impacts the functionality, patient experience, staff productivity, infection control and future adaptability of the practice. By engaging the expertise of an architect experienced in dental surgery design, aspiring dentists can create an environment that fosters patient comfort, staff well-being and efficient operations. The investment in a well-designed dental practice ultimately contributes to the overall success and growth of the practice for years to come.

At Blueprint Dental we recognise the importance of architectural design in all our new build or refurbishment projects. That’s why we have our own highly experienced architectural designer to provide you with the expertise and guidance you need.

Meet Rachael.

Rachael is highly talented architectural designer, with huge experience of designing dental surgeries. Everything from new buildings to private house conversions to listed building projects, advising on everything from building control regulations and HTMI requirements to interior design.

Rachael works with our project managers, sales and technical teams and our dental clients to create a design that not only realises your dream dental practice, but also works in the real world for you, your staff and your patients.

Rachael Lawtey Architectural Designer

In summary, using a specialist architectural designer makes all the difference giving you a well designed, ergonomic and compliant dental surgery to welcome your patients to for years to come.

Contact us today on 0800 228 9828 to discuss your squat practice or simply complete the form below and we'll be right back...

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Nov 29
Will_Cunningham_7

Meet the Blueprint Family – Will Cunningham

By Blog, NEWS

Here’s the next in our ‘Meet the Blueprint family’ blog series

In the next of our “Meet the Blueprint Family’ series, we’re introducing Will Cunningham, our Business Development Manager for Surgeries.

Read on to find out more!

Will_Cunningham_1

Will’s been an integral part of the Blueprint family since joining us in 2015, having been brought up in Surrey. After gaining qualifications in engineering and aeronautical engineering, he started his professional career with Nokia Telecommunications, ‘stumbling’ (his words, not ours!) into the world of dental as a field service engineer around the year 2000.

This proved to be an excellent technical foundation to facilitate his move into dental sales in 2004. Since then he’s worked for a number of high profile dental companies and never looked back…

Will’s years of dedication to the dental equipment industry have provided him with a huge amount of experience which he draws upon whenever he’s talking to new and existing Blueprint customers.

Whether their requirement is for a single chair replacement or complete new turnkey surgery project, Will has the experience and expertise to recommend the best solution for the dentist, the practice and their patients.

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Will_Cunningham_7

Speak to any of our dental surgery customers and we’re pretty sure they’ll speak really highly of Will and his extensive knowledge of dental workflows and equipment choices. And that goes far beyond the advice needed when looking at a new dental chair.

He’ll help you plan and co-ordinate all those other areas like cabinetry and plant equipment, which may not be at the centre of your working world like your dental chair, but are equally as important in the smooth and ergonomic running of your practice

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Will_Cunningham_Image

In his own words, Will describes his role as follows:

“Working with all the various customers means every day presents new challenges, which I really enjoy solving. Ultimately the aim is to keep our practitioners happy & smiling, by delivering full term key solutions, assisted by our internal service team and support networks.

After all, where there’s a Will, there’s a way!!”

Outside of work, Will has a wide range of hobbies and interests, including classic cars, building watches and going to the theatre.

He’s also a keen cyclist and enjoys swimming and walking.

And when he’s at home, he enjoys relaxing with his partner Lucy and their cat.

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Image of Will Cunningham

If you have a forthcoming surgery project, whether it’s a single piece of kit, a refurbishment project or complete new squat practice, you can contact Will on 07947 932 814 or via email here.

Jun 29
Blueprint_Dental_Surgery

Selecting the right dental equipment for your practice

By Blog

When it comes to selecting equipment for your dental practice, whether it’s to replace an old piece of kit or to get your brand new business up and running, we bet you’re pretty cognisant of the fact that these are BIG decisions.

BIG decisions, with LONG timeframes to live with if you don’t get it quite right. And BIG decisions with a LOT of different elements which need to be considered:

 

  • Equipment needs to be comfy and ergonomic for both you and your staff
  • It needs to be practical and do the job (ie. be fit for purpose)
  • It probably needs to impress your patients, it definitely needs to keep them safe and you most certainly want it to contribute to their positive outcomes
  • Oh, and it needs to be purchased, fitted and commissioned all within your budget
Wimpole-Street-Dental-Clinic-surgery-11-1800x1200 2

So, we thought we’d put together a little article here to help guide you through the equipment minefield and arm you with some tips and tricks to make sure you get what you need for your surgery, without any expensive mistakes.

So, where to start?

Actually, let’s start before you start….

It’s really easy to dive straight in and get carried away looking at shiny new pieces of kit online – beautifully kitted out surgeries on Pinterest, colour-ordinated treatment rooms on Instagram, manufacturers’ and local suppliers’ websites stuffed with features and benefits and performance data. All of these have a place in your decision making process, but before you get stuck in, take a step back and a little bit of time to:

  • Ask your peers – talk to other dentists about what equipment they have. It’s a great chance to find out what it’s like to use and work with all day, every day. Ask them what they like, ask them what they’d change or improve and ask them about the dental equipment supplier they use and what their after sales service is like.
  • Read some online reviews – now we know that you’ll get the good, the bad AND the downright ugly here, but, with an open mind, you’ll also be able to spot any trends and useful feedback about the equipment you’re researching. At the very least, it will provide you with some questions to ask a potential equipment supplier.
  • Go to an event – Something which we’ve been missing in the last couple of years, but now there are a number of great opportunities to attend industry events with exhibitions, which allow you to see the equipment up close and get a feel for its overall look and quality. 

So, doing a little bit of preliminary research should have furnished you with some ideas of which types of equipment you think you’d like to look a little deeper into. 

Now’s the time to get really excited and start some decision-making. 

What are your priorities?

Think about the effects the type of equipment you purchase will have on those around you.

What are the effects on the patient?

Think about comfort and style, but also consider hard facts like radiation dose.

Ergonomics is always a big one – you and your team are working with this kit all day every day. Does the chair adjust to a comfortable working height? Does that CBCT unit fit in the room with an operative and a patient, without too much of a squeeze? Can your dental nurse load and unload the steriliser without bending and twisting?

Axano_Treatment_Center
Orthophos E

Consider your ‘needs’ v your ‘wants’. Also look at what you may be able to add on at a later date, if your budget doesn’t allow it in the first instance. For example you could consider a 3D ready CBCT unit, which would allow you to get started with 2D extraoral imaging, with the ability to ‘upgrade’ to 3D as your practice expands.

Next…the bean counting piece

First and foremost – Set your budget…and stick to it!

If you’re setting up your own practice, you will probably already have had discussions with financial and accounting professionals, who are providing advice to you. 

But, whatever your reason for needing new kit, there are also other ways of financing it in addition to outright purchase.

Lease purchase has become a flexible and viable way of acquiring the equipment you need from Day 1, whilst spreading the cost over several years. More on that particular subject a little later.

Choosing an equipment supplier

Having considered all of the above, now’s the time to contact dental equipment suppliers and whittle down your choices and identifying what you can get for your available budget.

So, what should you look out for when you start talking to an equipment supplier?

Well, you’re in luck here – you’ve come to a great place to start. At Blueprint, we’re perfectly placed to help you with all of those big decisions and ensure you don’t make those BIG, COSTLY mistakes.

But, in all seriousness, there are things you need to look for when selecting a dental equipment supplier.

  • Are they well established?
  • Do they have a good reputation in the industry? Perhaps they were recommended to you when you spoke to your peers
  • What’s their after sales service like? This is a real biggie!
  • Do they have a wide portfolio of equipment to choose from and represent quality dental manufacturers?

With nearly two decades of serving at the forefront of the UK’s dental industry, we’re pretty confident that we tick all those boxes and we’re more than happy to let you have a chat with any of our customers who’ll give you the lowdown on working with us. 

We don’t use the hashtag #mostrecommended lightly or flippantly!

If you would like to discuss your project with us further, we have a whole host of ways we can help you evaluate and choose the best equipment for your practice, your patients and your budget, in addition to having one of the most knowledgeable and passionate teams in the business.

More on Finance

We mentioned lease purchase a little earlier as a great way of getting up and running and spreading the payments for your new equipment. We’re really fortunate to work with the fantastic team at Vector Finance and we can put you in contact with them to help calculate the most cost-efficient (and potentially even more importantly tax-efficient) ways of financing your equipment.

We’d love the chance to assist you with your equipment search and help you make the RIGHT decisions that’ll keep you, your patients and your accountant happy in the long run.

#mostrecommended

For more information, please call us on 0800 228 9828 or complete the form below:

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Feb 11
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How to find the best dental equipment suppliers in London, UK

By Blog, NEWS

As a dentist or dental technician, you know the importance of having reliable and high-quality dental equipment and you want to make sure you’re getting the best quality products available.

When it comes to finding the best suppliers of dental equipment in the London area, and indeed the UK, there are many options to choose from and it’s important to do your research before taking the plunge.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss some important factors to consider when choosing a dental equipment supplier.

So, whether you’re looking for new equipment or just want to explore your options, read on for some helpful tips!

First Impressions Count

Where to start?

Many dental professionals will start with a search of potential suppliers’ websites. You’ll get an immediate feel for the supplier and perhaps even start to filter down your equipment choices based on the information on the website.

If you decide to fill in a contact form for a callback or to arrange a demo from the website, the response time for you to hear back from the supplier is often a good indicator of their levels of customer service and responsiveness.

Alternatively, you may have had a potential supplier recommended to you via a colleague and decide to make your first contact by phone. Again, you’ll get an immediate impression of the company, how knowledgeable and friendly its customer service team is and their ability to meet your requirements, all from that initial point of contact.

Do they represent top dental brands?

Which suppliers offer the top dental brands? You may well have a favoured brand in mind. One that you’ve used before or heard great things about, so this may help you with your search.

The most recognised and reputed dental brands across the world get the top picks of the best distributors and will have stringent requirements in place when awarding distributorships. After all, their own reputations are at stake here too.

So, our advice is to look at what brands a dental equipment supplier offers in their product portfolio. The top global dental equipment companies will only do business with distributors whose sales & customer service teams are properly trained on their products and whose service engineers carrying out routine or unplanned maintenance are factory trained.

Patient in Dentsply Sirona Intego dental chair
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Orthophos 2D family

And offer the latest product ranges?

This goes hand in hand with the branding section above. If you’re looking for some new kit, the chances are you’d like something sleek and modern from the latest ranges, whether you’re talking about a new dental chair or imaging unit for your dental practice or upgraded equipment for your dental lab.

Again, you’ll soon get the idea of who is offering cutting edge kit by having a browse on their website or making a quick call into the office.

Finding the Dream Team

So, you’ve got your eye on a couple of pieces of new, shiny equipment and it may well be available from more than one supplier. We know that. That’s life, but who are you going to put your faith in?

Sure, pricing is important and we’ll cover that later, but so is the relationship with the supplier.

In most cases a piece of equipment for your dental surgery or laboratory will last 7-10 years, so picking a team who you can work with, who offer industry-leading customer service  and who are going to be around to support you over the lifetime of your equipment is really important. You don’t want to be left high and dry after a couple of years with a supplier who no longer exists!

Choose a well established, long standing supplier with a professional and experienced team and, hey we’d say, if you can find a bunch of people who love the dental business and are great to work with, well that’s just an added bonus too!

After sales service must be second to none too

We’ll cover the importance of high quality after sales service in a separate blog, but suffice to say it’s really important. All kit needs maintaining to keep it in tip top working order, enabling you to keep a healthy flow of patients coming through your surgery.

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Service Engineer in van

Location & Response Time

Also consider where the supplier is located themselves. This is particularly important for dental practices in the London area, where travel time for the supplier to get to you may be extended if they are based outside of the area.

Their ability to support you will be impacted by the distance they need to travel to support you. And in the London area, we all know that even covering the shortest of distances can take a long time, so choosing a supplier with a local office and service support engineers will rapidly improve their response times to you.

Competitive Prices

You want the best deal, right? Of course you do!

But remember, there is always an element of ‘you get what you pay for’.

Seek out a supplier whose pricing for your project is fair, clear and, yes, competitive. It may not be the cheapest, but that doesn’t mean it’s not the best deal for you overall. Look at what the pricing does include and, perhaps more importantly, what it doesn’t, before committing your hard earned surgery cash to a project.

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Ready to choose? Why not consider Blueprint Dental?

At Blueprint Dental, we’re pretty sure we can tick all the boxes we mention above.

Blueprint Dental is different and we’re proud of that fact.

Located in south west London, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible and a deeply personal service, whether you’re a dentist or dental technician.

We pride ourselves on being the most recommended and trusted source of dental equipment and service in the London area, indeed in the UK as a whole. We carry only top-of-the-line products from leading global brands, so you can rest assured knowing that you’re getting the best possible value for your money. Plus, our team of experienced professionals is always on hand to help you find exactly what you need, no matter what your needs may be.

Make us your first port of call and contact us today to learn more about our products and services can help you and your patients.

Have a question or want to find out more? Complete the form below and we'll be right back in touch...

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Dec 03
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10 Top Tips For Starting Your Dental Squat Practice

By Blog, NEWS, What's New

For any ambitious dentist, the idea of opening a dental squat practice is an intriguing and exciting one. To get started you will need to take some steps that may seem daunting at first, but that can be broken down into manageable tasks which will see you well on the road to realising your dream practice in no time.

So, we’ve put together these 10 Top Tips to help you get started setting up your own Dental Squat Practice:

Top Tip #1 – Create a watertight business plan

Not the most thrilling place to start, huh? You just want to get on with the exciting stuff. Maybe, but sitting down and creating a comprehensive business plan doesn’t have to be like pulling teeth.

Setting yourself clear, achievable objectives will be key to your success AND prove invaluable if you need to obtain finance or attract business partners to your venture. Think about the business and personal goals you want to achieve over the short, medium and long term and write them down. It doesn’t need to be a weighty tome, but a little bit of upfront thought and planning now will save you time and money in the long run.

Top Tip #2  – Location, location, location!

Perhaps one of the most important and biggest decisions you’ll have to make is where to physically set your practice up.

Your surgery is nothing without patients, so think about how easily they can get to the practice. Ideally it needs to be easy to find and accessible. If the majority of your patients will travel by car, consider how easy it is to park nearby and whether there are parking charges. If patients travel by public transport, how good are the links? Where’s the nearest bus stop or train station?

The location of your dental surgery will also define your footfall from the surrounding area and passers-by. You’re more likely to get noticed on a busy road than a quiet side road or rural location.

Your patients should be front and centre of your location choice, but don’t forget your staff and even your own journey. How easy and far is your commute and is it easy for your team to get to and from work as well?

Also, it’s worth a quick scout around the area to see how close your competition is too. Are there other dental surgeries in the vicinity and how will you stand out from the crowd and differentiate your surgery?

Which leads us on nicely to…

Top Tip #3 – Your brand and identity

Here’s one of those exciting bits!

But there’s a serious element at stake here too. Everything from the way your surgery looks from the outside, the ambience of the reception area and waiting room, to the calmness and comfort of the treatment rooms will influence patient experience and their likelihood to recommend you to others. More on this later, but don’t underestimate word of mouth (No pun intended!)

Having a clever, funky logo and painting the practice your favourite colour is all well and good, but how the surroundings make the patient feel and the consistency of how you apply your brand are hugely important.

Some careful consideration upfront and consistent application of your brand from the start will go a long way to establishing you in your new neighbourhood.

Top Tip #4 – Choosing your equipment & fit out

Another area we all get excited about!

But this one really is of utmost importance and will affect the efficiency of how your practice runs, your workflows and patient experience. Ask yourself what equipment you really need to get your practice up and running.

Are you going to be offering chairside restorations and digital dentistry? Is space limited, so a knee-break dental chair may work better for patient access? What about decontamination workflows and the ‘unseen’ suction equipment every dental practice needs?

Do you need every piece of kit on your shopping list from the outset or can some be added or upgraded as your patient base expands?

Our golden nugget of advice here is to partner with a dental equipment supplier who has the experience and expertise of guiding you through setting up your first dental practice from its first inception to the day you open the doors to your first patients.

You’ll need someone who can help you with everything from dental surgery design & workflows, project management to make sure everything happens at the right time, in the right order and on budget to someone with the technical skills and expertise to execute on-site installation, commissioning and training, with the minimum amount of fuss and mess.

And, yes, here at Blueprint Dental, that’s right up our street and we’d love to discuss your project with you from an early stage.

Top Tip #5 – Financing your dream

 So, you’ve created that business plan, found your premises, thought about what equipment you need and even have some ideas about that funky logo…

Now it’s time for the really serious stuff…how are you going to pay for it all?

Well, the good news is there are some awesome specialist finance companies out there who can help you make the right financial choices as you start your business. They can provide you with illustrations and choices for lease purchase and rental options that will provide clarity for your payment plans and options as your business grows.

But, be sure to find yourself a good, reputable finance company, who understand the dental business as well as they do money matters.

In our eyes, you’d do well to find anyone better than Vector Finance, who we’ve worked with on many projects and will also be able to provide guidance on tax planning and efficiencies, as well as any government grants and schemes which you can take advantage of.

Cash flow is also an important consideration in the control of your finances. Make sure you are registered with all the right patient insurance providers and keep up to date with your treatment claims, as well as ensuring patients who pay for treatment do so before leaving the practice. That way, you’ll be in good financial health to make sure you’ve always got the cash to keep well stocked of the consumable items you need to run your practice and before you know it there’ll be enough left over to be drawing a decent income from the practice yourself too.

Top Tip #6 – Who’s in your dream team?

You’ll need to decide what your staffing structure should be from the start and how you might look to add to it as the practice becomes more established.

As tempting as it may be from a financial perspective to minimise wage costs and go it alone from the start, you should consider whether that works on a practical level. You are a skilled clinician, highly trained to perform intricate dental procedures on patients, not a jack of all trades also managing patient appointments, payments and rotas.

We’re assuming you’ll need a dental assistant, but also consider whether some administrative support in the shape of a Practice Manager or reception team would be prudent. With the greatest respect, we all know some superb dental surgeons who freely admit that admin is not their forte. And that’s not to mention that it can be pretty lonely managing all elements of the business on your own.

Maybe you just need some part time help when you first start, building up to a bigger and possibly full time team as time goes by.

Are you offering hygienist services? Do you have a spare surgery you can rent out to other dental professionals who may want to treat patients in your area? These are all things which are good to consider and discuss with your dental equipment supplier from the outset.

Top Tip #7 – Marketing Matters

Marketing your dental squat practice can be difficult, but it’s worth the effort and will pay dividends.

Research the best channels to reach your potential patients. This is likely to be a combination of digital channels like a website and social media, together with non-digital channels like advertising in local newspapers, leaflet drops and word of mouth (we said we’d come back to that and here we are!)

Make sure you make it easy for people to contact you. It might sound obvious, but make sure the telephone number and email address are easily seen. Check, recheck and then check again for spelling mistakes and typos (…we’re back to that brand and patient experience again)

And keep it simple. You don’t have to spend thousands on the swankiest website in town, but you should tie everything in with your brand and keep at it. Regular postings and contact with your potential clients will get people through the door. And as soon as you can get patient testimonials, do so,  and don’t be afraid to ask your satisfied patients to spread the word and recommend you to their own friends and family. Word of mouth really is a hugely powerful and wholly under-rated form of marketing.

Top Tip #8 – Get the legal stuff sorted

Taking on premises open to the public, whether you’re renting or buying, entering into financial agreements and potentially employing staff all come with legal implications.

Make sure you’re clear from the start what your legal obligations are and take legal advice to make sure you have everything in order. You don’t want any nasty shocks or surprises further down the line.

The same goes for any building regulations you may need to have in place before starting work on your practice, indemnities and liability policies when dealing with the public and dental-specific legalities around treatments and hazardous waste disposal.

Top Tip #9 – Keep your equipment in tip top working order

The smooth running of your practice once opened will be vital to your reputation and stress levels. The last thing you need is to have to cancel dental procedures due to faulty or unreliable equipment.

Talk to your dental equipment supplier about on-going maintenance routines early on when you’re specifying and choosing your kit.

Get an understanding of what the preventative maintenance schedules are, choose a supplier who has experienced and factory-trained engineers and maximise the uptime of your key pieces of equipment by choosing a dental maintenance team who can service your kit around your schedules to minimise the impact on your working day.

You may even be able to factor in maintenance costs to any lease purchase agreements, but however you’re financing your kit, don’t overlook this element and be sure to include it in any cashflow forecasts you create.

We’re pretty confident at Blueprint Dental that we tick all the boxes when it comes to keeping your squat practice in tip top working order too.

Top Tip #10 – Take time to enjoy your dream

So, you’ve done it! Your very own dental practice, all set up and running; a steady stream of patients coming through the door, some even recommended by their friends and families.

It’s been hard work, you’ve learned so much and you’ve worked incredibly long hours to get to this point, but we hope that with the help of an experienced and reputable dental equipment company, it’s been worth it.

Stop. Look around you and give yourself a minute to take in all that you’ve created, all that you’ve achieved for your patients, your team, your family and yourself.

Congratulations!

At Blueprint Dental, we’d love to be part of your journey to realise the dream of your squat practice. 

Drop us a line to discuss your dream today.

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