A major requirement of the remodel was that Associated Dentists stay open during construction so the doctors could maintain productivity and continue meeting their patients needs. Together, Patterson and the doctors came up with a plan to remodel half of the practice at a time, while the doctors worked out of the other half.

The doctors and staff made this arrangement work by being creative with their space: moving the reception area to the lunchroom, going without doctor’s offices during construction and even working out of only four operatories for two weeks. Since the practice’s sterilization area had been completely remodeled just a few years before and was still cutting-edge, they were able to keep it as-is and utilize it during the remodel.

The noise and inconvenience of construction wasn’t always easy for the doctors and staff. “It was tough, but our staff was outstanding. They hung in there and put up with it,” said Robberstad. The nine-month remodel was completed in February 2010.

Though the construction process had its challenges, the remodeled practice has completely reinvigorated the doctors, staff and patients. “I’m 59 years old and before, my back was sore and my fingers were stiff. But now that I’m working ergonomically with new equipment, most of my pains are gone,” said Dr. Resch. “It’s like night and day. Now, I’m thinking, ‘10 more years – that’s not a problem!’”

Productivity continues to improve and the doctors are excited for the future growth of the practice. “This investment wasn’t about the next 10 years, this was about the next 35 years,” said Robberstad. “We’ve been in one of the toughest business climates I’ve ever seen and by holding our own, it’s a win.”