Dr. Doug Sandquist on Building a Dental Practice That Actually Works

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo sits down with Dr. Doug Sandquist for a raw, honest, and deeply practical conversation about what it really takes to build a successful, and sustainable, dental practice.This is not another discussion about doing more dentistry, chasing production, or scaling at all costs.Instead, Dr. Sandquist shares the hard-earned lessons from nearly three decades in practice, including how he transitioned from chasing “what works” to building a model rooted in clarity, confidence, and fulfillment. From walking away from implant surgery to redefining case acceptance through trust, not pressure, this episode challenges many of the assumptions dentists are taught early in their careers.You’ll hear how slowing down can actually accelerate growth, why multiple consult visits can outperform same-day closes, and how defining non-negotiables, both clinically and personally, can transform not just your practice, but your life.This conversation also goes beyond dentistry. It dives into burnout, identity, and the reality that success is not just about profit; it’s about profit plus fulfillment. From the “10 summers with your kids” mindset to designing a practice that aligns with your values, this episode is a powerful reminder that you have more control than you think.Key Takeaways:Why the best dentists focus on trust-building, not speedThe hidden downside of “strike while the iron’s hot” case acceptanceHow to design a practice around your strengths—not industry normsThe real difference between fee-for-service and PPO stressWhy taking more time off may actually increase productivityThe importance of defining personal and professional non-negotiablesHow discovering your “why” can reshape your entire careerIf you’ve ever questioned whether the traditional path in dentistry is the right one, or felt the tension between production and purpose, this episode will hit home.Listen now and rethink what success in dentistry really looks like.