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C-Suite Spotlight: Dr. Dipesh Patel, Blueprint Smiles
Dr. Dipesh Patel’s path into dentistry was anything but conventional. A graduate of Nova Southeastern Dental School in 2012, Patel initially envisioned a career in medicine, influenced by relatives in the field. A casual conversation at a family wedding, however, altered his trajectory. Family doctors advised him to explore dentistry, highlighting the career’s potential for a balanced lifestyle and professional flexibility. “I can see myself wanting to do this,” Patel recalls thinking at the time—a decision that would shape his future in unexpected ways.
Early Career Challenges and Lessons Learned
Fresh out of dental school, Patel joined a dental support organization (DSO) in Georgia. Promised mentorship and cutting-edge technology, he instead found himself alone in an outdated practice environment. Within four months, recognizing a lack of support, he decided to take matters into his own hands.
At just 26, Patel purchased his first practice—an 80% Medicaid office in a challenging location with dated equipment. The practice had been modeled on the 1970s system struggled initially, and Patel faced significant financial pressure from both student loans and practice debt.
Despite these obstacles, Patel’s resolve strengthened. He immersed himself in clinical and business education, investing heavily in expanding his practice and continuing education, far exceeding required CE hours, and sought innovative ways to grow the practice.
With limited funds for traditional consulting, he partnered with college friends on a growth-sharing model—no upfront fees, just a percentage of any business growth. With his friends, skilled in law, marketing, and web development, Patel created a framework where consulting fees were a percentage of the client’s growth.
This innovative model quickly proved successful, helping multiple practices expand and thrive. His approach was hands-on and experimental, forming the foundation for the systems he would later develop. After achieving success, he began helping other dentists using the same approach. Eventually, these efforts evolved into a full management structure, consolidating eight practices under a single umbrella, Blueprint Smiles.
“My first office had five people, including myself. Today, we have a team of 85, including doctors and staff. We’re international to some extent, with a team in Zimbabwe and another being built in the Philippines, alongside our local team supporting all our offices and leadership.”
The group describes itself as a PSO, or “People Service Organization.” Its focus is on supporting team members so they can provide the best care to patients, with the broader goal of fostering a positive and fulfilling workplace in dentistry. The organization envisions becoming the “happiest DSO/PSO in dentistry.”
Blueprint Smiles has been recognized for its rapid growth and impact in the dental industry. In 2023, the company was ranked #4656 on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies, reflecting an impressive 87% growth over the previous three years. Building on that success, Blueprint Smiles improved its position in 2024, rising to #3971 on the list. This achievement underscores Blueprint Smiles’ commitment to excellence and innovation in dental care.
Happiness as a Core Metric
At the heart of Patel’s DSO model is a focus on employee well-being. Rejecting the traditional concept of work-life balance, he champions “work-life thrive,” prioritizing flexible schedules and personal growth. “If I take care of my people the right way, they have less burnout, they enjoy their work, and they can provide better care for patients,” he explains.
All offices operate on a standardized model, with consistent hours, equipment, and workflows that prioritize same-day care. Every operatory is fully equipped for any procedure, allowing doctors and hygienists to treat patients efficiently without moving between rooms. This approach not only streamlines operations but enhances patient satisfaction and retention.
Investing in Team Development
Patel emphasizes ongoing professional growth for his team. Each position has a dedicated learning management system, KPIs, and coaching, supplemented by company-sponsored continuing education. Benefits include PTO, health insurance, 401(k) plans, and a doctor ownership model which enables clinicians to have equity in their locations.
“Mentorship is now the top question from new associates,” Patel notes, reflecting a generational shift among emerging dentists. While ownership was a primary concern in previous years, today’s dentists prioritize guidance, flexibility, and personal fulfillment. Patel encourages defining success individually, rather than following conventional expectations.
Industry Outlook
Optimistic about the dental industry, Patel believes technology and AI will enable smaller practices to compete with larger DSOs. He anticipates continued consolidation but sees opportunities for groups like his, which offer flexibility, support, and ownership opportunities while maintaining a private-practice feel.
Comprehensive, Patient-Focused Care
Patel’s model emphasizes rapid access and comprehensive care. New patients are typically seen within three days, with same-day treatment available for cleanings, fillings, extractions, crowns, and implants. This patient-centered approach, combined with engaged and supported teams, contributes to strong retention, positive reviews, and a sustainable growth model.
“Typically, we can see a new patient within three days, and over 20% of the treatment we present is started immediately. Our system is designed for same-day care, so whether it’s a cleaning, a filling, or an extraction, we’re able to begin treatment for nearly every patient—around 80 to 90% of the time—on the very day they walk in.”
Looking Ahead
While approached by private equity firms, Patel and his partner remain committed to measured growth that preserves employee well-being and local impact. Geographic expansion will focus on nearby areas, ensuring consistent support and operational excellence.
Dr. Patel’s journey—from a solo dentist navigating challenges to a leader in group dentistry—illustrates a vision centered on people, efficiency, and innovation. His story is a testament to resilience, creative problem-solving, and the potential to redefine success in the dental industry.
