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Clark Dental | Case study: how I did it

Dr Neel Tank of The Village Dental Practice describes what prompted the recent relocation

Several years on, with the practice once again back on track business-wise, I felt it was time to expand the range of services available to patients to encompass treatments that covered all aspects of dentistry, as well as provide these in a modern and friendly environment. The practice had begun to outgrow its existing premises, and I thought it was the right time to relocate it to a more prominent position on the high street – something that had been a long-term goal of mine from the very beginning.

As soon as I saw the new site, I knew immediately that it was in the perfect location; situated on the main high street with a large shop frontage meant that it would be extremely prominent, which in turn would create an increase in public awareness of the practice. The building itself was spread over two floors, making it very easy to separate the space into different working zones. The downstairs area lent itself very well to becoming the main clinical site, whilst upstairs was perfect for housing office, staff and administrative activities. 

	I felt strongly that a move would also be the perfect opportunity to give the practice a complete overhaul. With this in mind, I decided to embark on achieving an ultra-modern surgery that included state-of-the-art equipment and technology.

Fortunately, I had already had some experience in this area, having fully refurbished my other practice in Kingsclere the previous year. This helped me enormously in terms of my confidence, and gave me the experience I needed to approach this new challenge in an optimistic but realistic way. I also had close emotional support from Laura and my family, which also helped enormously in dealing with the many obstacles that I knew could lie ahead.

Having created a picture in my mind of what I wanted to achieve, as well as acquired the ideal site on which to realise this, my biggest fear was that I would be unable to find a company capable of turning my vision into a reality. This, however, was not the only hurdle that I had to overcome - there was also the not-so-small matter of obtaining planning permission to make the necessary alterations, as well as get consent for the building’s change of use – all of which meant that I had a lot to juggle and prioritise. Another concern was the question of whether residents living near to the new premises might raise objections to my plans, and how I would manage these if they arose. To say that there is a lot to consider when relocating is an understatement! 

Besides the emotional considerations, which really have to be taken seriously, there are also the financial implications, which, if overlooked, can significantly hinder, and in some cases, destroy the completion of an otherwise good project. In terms of finance, I was helped with a business loan from my bank, which enabled me to purchase the freehold property and cover the costs of construction work. The costs of the equipment were covered by a contract with Tim Gammon at Lease UK, enabling me to lease what I needed.

Several companies assisted me in this project, with Aspects building contractors recommending the assistance of Clark Dental. Aspects building contractors dealt with the building works, electrics, plumbing, and air conditioning/heating systems, whilst Clark Dental provided the planning and design of the surgeries and central sterilisation room, along with all of the new equipment.

	I was enormously impressed by the way in which Clark Dental worked; they were helpful in all aspects of the development process, always providing a fast and efficient service. If there was a query that needed solving that couldn’t be resolved onsite, then somebody was available at all times via telephone.

So that I was able to see my vision in its completed state, Clark Dental used CAD (computer aided design) to allow me to visualise the rooms from every possible aspect; this was incredibly helpful and certainly added to my peace of mind. As I mentioned earlier, finding a company that I could trust with my unique vision was incredibly important to me, and with Clark Dental, I really felt that my new practice was in safe hands. My architect, Chris Bateman of Bateman Harris Architects, had highly recommended working with Matt from Clark Dental and commented that the company was extremely helpful, friendly and quickly available for the initial on site meeting. I was particularly impressed by the way in which they provided a personal touch to all of their work, taking pride in every process, and always being honest with their answers and advice.

For me, one of my own personal achievements was being able to project manage whilst still practicing dentistry full-time, it gave me a real sense of personal pride. On top of this, I was also incredibly pleased to have stuck to the budget that was initially agreed and finished on time! Laura, with her 13 years in the profession as a dental nurse and practice manager, liaised with many of the companies involved, gave valued input to the project from her experience and supported me with all the decisions that were made. Now that the project is complete, I am proud to work in the new practice, and enjoy being complimented daily by patients regarding the changes. I am able to confidently say that I have realised (with the help of several companies) my dream in being able to provide the highest quality treatment for my patients, whilst using the best equipment in a modern, professional yet relaxing environment. If I were to offer any advice to other dental professionals considering a similar project, it would be to hire an experienced architect and a surgery design and equipment company like Clark Dental that you can trust implicitly and who will help with the planning and successful outcome of the project. I am delighted to say that thanks to my focus, determination and unwavering vision, along with the invaluable assistance from several companies, everything that I planned has been successfully developed and achieved.

Dr Tank is a dentist, practice owner and businessman, he has achieved several accreditations, is the Chairman of the BDA Reading section as well as the Chairman of the BDA South Mercia Branch, governing six sections. 

For further information on Clark Dental's complete equipment service call 01268 733146 or visit www.clarkdental.co.uk