Growing a Dental Empire with Frank Semo
Strategy without the skill to communicate it, is like a morning without a cup of coffee doable, but it takes so much to get through the day. In the latest episode of The Dental Economist Show, host CRO Mike Huffaker of Planet DDS welcomes Frank Semo, COO of Oakwood Dental, to explore modern dental practices and strategies for growing a dental empire.
What you’ll learn:
- How to transition from clinical expertise to executive leadership while leveraging industry knowledge
- The framework for evaluating and implementing new technology across multiple dental practices
- Why patient experience starts with employee satisfaction and clear communication
- How to balance automation and outsourcing while maintaining practice culture
- The strategic approach to practice acquisition and integration in today’s market
- Why focusing on reactivation and optimization often matters more than new patient acquisition
- How to create effective insurance management strategies while maintaining profitability
Tune in for actionable insights on making the right moves at the right time, with the right people.
Episode Highlights
In this episode, host Mike Huffaker and Frank Semo, COO of Oakwood Dental, explore the key strategies that shape positive patient experience. Here are some highlights from the show:
Strategic practice assessment framework
Semo shares his proven approach to evaluating and prioritizing initiatives when joining a dental organization, starting with taking a comprehensive 10,000-foot view of the business. Understanding the founding partners’ short and long-term goals through detailed one-on-one conversations creates alignment and builds trust from day one.
By focusing first on centralizing core business processes and evaluating the technology stack, leaders can establish a strong foundation for sustainable growth.
Patient optimization over new patient acquisition
Semo challenges the common belief that practices primarily need more new patients, instead emphasizing the optimization of existing patient relationships. The key focus should be on perfecting every touchpoint in the patient journey, from answering calls to scheduling follow-up care.
By implementing robust systems for patient communication and reactivation, practices can maximize the value of their existing patient base. Strong communication skills and building trust are essential for helping patients understand and accept recommended treatment.
Change management through clear communication
Semo reveals his strategy for implementing significant operational changes by maintaining an active leadership presence and clearly communicating the “why” behind every initiative. The approach focuses on helping team members see how changes will improve their daily work experience, rather than just driving efficiency metrics.
Leaders must acknowledge potential challenges while painting a clear picture of the positive outcomes ahead. This transparent communication style helps overcome initial resistance and builds lasting buy-in from the team.
The silent practice model
Semo introduces an innovative perspective on practice operations, where a quiet, empty waiting room and minimal incoming calls are actually signs of excellence. This model focuses on removing administrative burden through strategic outsourcing and automation, allowing staff to focus on patient care.
The approach prioritizes outbound patient communication over reactive responses, creating a more controlled and pleasant environment. This operational model leads to reduced stress, improved patient experience, and better staff retention.
About The Dental Economist Show
Don’t miss insightful conversations with industry experts on the latest trends and top strategies to grow your DSO or dental business. Tune in to The Dental Economist Show each week as we meet at the intersection of profit and purpose.
