Another part of that same challenge is entering a market that is relatively saturated. “Marketing the practice has been an unfamiliar challenge for me. It wasn’t even on my radar the past eight years in New Mexico; it didn’t need to be,” Darnell said. “Now I’m finding innovative ways to market our skills and services effectively. When you’re unknown, you need to establish new relationships and gain the trust of your community. Our focus has always been to exceed a patient’s expectations, resulting in satisfied and loyal patients for years to come.”

Certainly, the more welcoming an environment can be, the more at ease patients will feel. For this reason, one priority was keeping the “sterile and dated look” out of his dècor. “I didn’t want the space to feel like a dental office,” Darnell said.

He envisioned a clean, uncluttered ambiance. The equipment was the priority and was installed first; everything else was planned with respect to where the equipment was placed. A titanium-gray and cucumber-green palette established a relaxing foundation and creates a crisp, airy feeling. “We created an environment soothing to patients,” Darnell said. “It’s imperative to have a positive first impression. That result does not have to mean expensive. We were able to stay within a reasonable budget for decorations and accessories.”

Veronica Darnell, the dental relationship coordinator for the practice, worked with several artists at local art galleries to acquire original pieces that were complementary to their overall design scheme. “I give all the design credit to my remarkable wife,” Darnell said. “She provided impeccable execution with the task of decorating. She is responsible for the splashes of bright colors, discovering economical solutions and incorporating the final touches to the dècor.”

As his family settles into Southlake, Slade said Darnell is already seeing great success after less than one year in the tight-knit community. “He loves his practice, loves coming to work and loves meeting his new patients,” Slade said.

One of the biggest takeaways from this complete life transition has been a renewal of his passion for the craft. “It has re-energized me,” Darnell said, “and encouraged me to do even more for my patients. I’m highly focused on the patient relationship experience.”

Every evening, Darnell calls his patients from earlier in the day to follow up with their comfort level and overall dental experience. What he hears most often is that they appreciate his honesty, availability and accessibility. Slade concurs, “It’s a very calm office.”

Of the six operatories, three are currently built-out, leaving room for future growth. Ideally, Darnell hopes to add another full-time hygienist in the short term (currently he has one). He has a vision to add a second associate in the next five years to pass along what he’s learned and to maintain the pace of his dynamic practice. This particular goal will indubitably offer time for that work-life balance. “I don’t want to be working as hard at 55 as I am at 40,” he said. “I love my job and I am blessed to have time outside the practice to enjoy other things in life like camping, fishing and spending time with my wife and kids.”