Dental Practice Construction: One Dentist’s Tale

Machias Dental Sets Out to Build New Headquarters

I’ve been telling you the story of Machias Dental, a practice in Maine that is outgrowing its building. (Catch up on the project overview and the financial considerations.) Dr. James Sparaga has launched an ambitious project to build a brand-new, state-of-the-art dental facility that will feature 7 operatories, 5000 square feet, and the most current technology.

First up was developing the basic concept for their new practice. “If our building were re-buildable, or bigger as it is, we’d have been happy to stay put with one doctor and four chairs,” the dentist told me. “But the building is coming down around our ears, and that’s what prompts us to build another.”

The Sparagas decided to go big. They would construct a new practice big enough for an associate.

Laying the foundation [click to enlarge]

Next, of course, came the logistics of planning. Dr. Sparaga obtained land in return for a dental trade. They spoke with architects and contractors. Blueprints were drawn up. The Sparagas started spending some real money on the project.

Finally, ground was broken. With rain expected in the fall and snow in the winter, timing was critical. Fortunately, the foundation was laid before the rain struck. Whew!

Check in next week for another update!