Have you ever pictured your dream dental practice—one where your schedule is full, your patients are exactly the kind of people you love treating, and your business is thriving? If you’re planning your startup, you already know that location plays a huge role in making that vision a reality.

But here’s the thing: choosing the right location isn’t just about rent prices or foot traffic. The real key to long-term success? Demographics.

In our latest episode of The Startup Dentist, we break down how to analyze demographic data, avoid the biggest location mistakes, and set yourself up for success before you even sign a lease.

Start with Your Ideal Patient

Before you even think about a location, ask yourself: Who do I love treating?

Think about age, income level, and the types of procedures you want to focus on. Are you passionate about family dentistry? High-end cosmetic work? Serving an underserved community?

Your practice location should match the type of patients you want to attract—because they are the foundation of your success.

Look Beyond the Numbers

Demographic reports are useful, but they don’t tell the whole story. A zip code might show a high population, but does that population actually need another dentist?

Consider factors like real travel distances, patient loyalty to existing providers, and community dynamics. Understanding the people behind the data is what separates thriving practices from struggling ones.

Think About Your Lifestyle

This is more than just a business decision—it’s a life decision.

How far are you willing to commute? What kind of community do you want to be part of? Will your family be happy living nearby?

Your practice should support the life you want, not create stress and burnout before you even get started.

Avoid Speculative Growth

It’s tempting to chase a “hot” new development or rely on the promise of a big employer moving in. But here’s the reality—speculative growth is risky.

Instead of gambling on what might happen in five years, focus on areas with proven demand. Choose a location that already has the population and income levels to support your practice today.

Make a Data-Driven Decision

Choosing the right location isn’t just about today—it’s about setting yourself up for long-term success.

Whether you’re building from the ground up or considering an acquisition, understanding demographics can be the difference between struggling and scaling.

Ready to dive deeper? Listen to the full episode here!

Keep smiling,
Stephen Trutter & The Startup Dentist Podcast Team