Sometimes in professional dentistry it feels as if everyone is out there for themselves – a competitive nature that resists collaboration and cross-practice teamwork.

While competition is essential for the success of any business, too much competition can make people feel threatened. Instead it’s important to think in terms of what I call complimentary dentistry.

Complementary dentistry is where a dental practitioner evaluates his local competition in order to get a strong sense of the types of services they offer. Take the time to develop a solid rapport with your neighbors and see how you can each help each other out.

For example, say dental practice A performs excellent socket preservations, but for whatever the reason, is less interested in placing implants. Let’s also say for argument sake that dental practice B places straightforward implants, but resists more complicated cases.

This can be your moment. The moment you decide to educate yourself on how to place complicated implants. Yes it will take a significant investment of time and money. And yes, success isn’t guaranteed. But by working with your fellow dentists and their practices in complementary and not competitive ways, could mean a tremendous boost to your business. In only a short amount of time dental practices A, B, and C will all be working together.

Start doing your homework and learn what treatments your competitors are offering and complement their services!