One of the most controversial changes was in the sterilization area, when Newingham proposed switching to cassettes and using a Hydrim. “I felt that this type of system was safer and more efficient, two key factors when considering what was best not only for my office, but for our students who would be washing instruments for the first time. My team was definitely nervous. They’d heard the Hydrim was too expensive to operate and often breaks down, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” Newingham said. “My team has been very happy with the switch and we love the cassette set-up, where instruments are separate and very clean.”

Even the little tweaks in the new practice have made a big difference, Newingham says. In the lab, for instance, a vacuum helps the team better manage dust and an exhaust fan keeps down the smell when plastic is being cut and trimmed.

Although Newingham’s Patterson team was there every step of the way, Coppens credits the doctor with having the vision and determination to bring his practice to life. “The biggest hand we had in the project was getting Dr. Newingham good information and coaching him,” Coppens said. “We just gave him the right information to help him make the right decisions.”

The facility that Newingham, Patterson and the architect designed is certainly garnering positive attention and not just from patients. The brick and wood building was designed to last a lifetime and have a timeless look and feel, and it recently won a masonry award. Wood features from the outside carry over inside the practice as well. “We added some earth tones, and stone and wood to the lobby to warm things up. There’s a fireplace too. It makes the whole building more inviting,” Newingham said.

The attention to detail in all aspects of his practice, from office design to continuing education, has paid off for Newingham’s practice as well. Business is growing, and he is enjoying working in a modern dental practice.

The new space is more than just a home for his business, says Wold, Newingham’s Patterson representative who was with him through the entire six-year process. “He’s created an environment that matches the skills, education and quality of his work.”

“Like the old saying goes, find a job you like and you’ll never work another day in your life,” Newingham said. “I truly enjoy every day I get to spend in my practice. This comes as no surprise to me because I have aligned myself with not only a great office team, but a great support team in Patterson. I look forward to many great years to come.”