Thinking About a Dental Practice Relocation? Start Here.

Thinking About a Dental Practice Relocation? Start Here.

If you’re considering a dental practice relocation, you might be wondering: Am I nuts for wanting to move?

Short answer: No. Not even close.

Relocating your dental office can be one of the most powerful decisions you make for your practice—when it’s done right. Think lower rent, better facilities, upgraded technology, and a location that attracts more of the right patients.

We’ve guided doctors through hundreds of relocations, and I’ve seen firsthand how a well-planned move can completely transform a practice. One Ideal Practices client in Arizona reduced his rent by nearly 25%, landed in a gorgeous space, and dramatically improved new patient flow—just by picking the right spot and executing with intention.

That said, a dental practice relocation done poorly? That’s the kind of mistake that can eat away at your profitability—and your peace of mind—for years.

Let’s make sure you’re setting yourself up for success. Here are three of the most important (but often overlooked) strategies to get it right.

#1: Use Patient Co-Creation to Build Loyalty Before You Even Open the Doors

One of the most powerful ways to make your patients feel connected to your new location is to involve them in the process. I call this activating the “co-creation nerve.”

It’s simple—but incredibly effective. Try things like:

• Sending a short survey asking patients to vote on paint colors, waiting room themes, or operatory names

• Sharing logo ideas on your practice’s Facebook page and encouraging input

• Posting construction updates and inviting feedback on newsletter and email blasts

Here’s why this works: people commit to what they help create. Not only will you gather useful feedback from the people you serve, but you’ll also foster a sense of ownership and excitement around the move—long before you hang the new shingle.

#2: Make Your New Location Feel Familiar—Before Moving Day

Change can be unsettling—even for loyal patients. The key is to make your new location feel familiar before anyone actually steps inside.

Here’s how:

• Print a large, simple map showing the route from your current office to your new space

• Place it in your waiting room 4–6 months in advance

• Train your team to talk it up with every patient

• Mention it in appointment reminders, newsletters, and on social media

Patients who see and hear about the new location repeatedly will feel more comfortable with the transition. They’re more likely to follow you there—and refer others, too.

#3: Choose an Iconic Location That Elevates Your Brand

Let’s talk real estate—but not the way your broker does.

When selecting a new site, don’t just think about rent or square footage. Think icon. Choose a location near something people in your community already know—like a town square, library, or recognizable landmark.

By positioning your office next to a local icon, your practice instantly benefits from:

• Familiarity (even if they’ve never been inside)

• Credibility and authority

• Increased visibility and perceived value

Pro tip: choose an icon that aligns with your values. For example, Ideal Practices often uses the Liberty Bell to represent freedom through private practice ownership. Align your physical space with the story you want your brand to tell.

Bottom Line: Dental Practice Relocation Is a Growth Opportunity—If You Lead It Strategically

Yes, it’s a big move. But if your current space is limiting your growth, hurting your team culture, or simply no longer fits your vision, relocation might be the smartest business decision you make.

Just remember:

• Get your patients involved early (co-creation = commitment)

• Make the new location feel familiar before moving day

• Choose your location like a marketer, not just a tenant

Looking for personalized insight for your own relocation strategy? We’ve helped hundreds of dentists navigate this process with confidence. You can start with a free consultation call here: Book a Consultation Call.

Let’s make sure your next move sets the stage for your best years yet.

– Stephen Trutter