Dealing with a Toxic Employee in Your Dental Office?

Toxic Employee Dental Office

Most dental office employees—whether receptionists, assistants, or hygienists—are committed professionals who care deeply about their patients and take pride in their work. Dentists, often focused on clinical responsibilities, may not always fully recognize the day-to-day contributions of their team. But make no mistake: a dedicated staff is the foundation of a successful dental practice. You […]

The Phone is a Dental Practice Lifeline

Dental Practice Phone Calls

Do You Know How Your Phones Are Being Handled? It’s amazing how much computers have transformed the way dental offices run. Scheduling, billing, insurance claims, treatment records, reminders—all are now digitized, streamlined, and efficient. Yet for all the high-tech systems in place, the telephone remains one of the most critical tools in your practice. Why? […]

Talking to a DSO About a Job? Here are Some Things to Consider.

Modern green dental chair and equipment in a practice ready for valuation by Otten-Rey Dental Sales.

Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) have become a major force in dentistry and are expected to continue growing in the years ahead. In the past, new dentists often began their careers as associates in private practices, sometimes leading to partnerships or even practice ownership. Today, the landscape has shifted. Why the shift? Two main reasons: As […]

What About a Restrictive Covenant AKA Non-Compete Agreement for Dentists?

Close-up of non-compete agreement paperwork used in dental practice sales at Otten-Rey Dental Sales

Many businesses want to protect themselves from competition from a former employee. And the more important the employee, the stronger they feel about protection. Most often, this protection comes in the form of a Restrictive Covenant (RC) or Non-Compete Agreement. A RC will be a factor when you sign an associate contract and when you […]

Embezzlement in the Dental Office

Embezzlement in the Dental Office

Most dentists think of their practices as small, close-knit teams where embezzlement “could never happen.” Unfortunately, it does—and often more frequently than expected. Ironically, the employee who commits embezzlement is often seen as the “perfect employee”—hardworking, loyal, always in control, and never asking for help. But that very control can provide the opportunity to siphon […]

10 Key Facts About Restrictive Covenants for Dentists (Non-Compete Agreements)

Dentist signing paperwork during a dental practice sale in St. Louis

If you’re considering signing with a dental practice in the St. Louis area, chances are you’ll be asked to sign a Restrictive Covenant (also called a non-compete agreement). Over the years, we’ve worked with many dentists facing these agreements—either at the start of employment or when preparing to leave and open their own practice. Here […]