Ralph Oppermann, DDS, has seen increases in the cost for supplies and staff wages at his Michigan dental practice.
Dr. Oppermann recently spoke with Becker's about how prices are increasing at his practice, AuSable Family Dental in Grayling, Mich.
Editor's note: This response was lightly edited for length and clarity.
Question: How are costs increasing at your practice?
Dr. Ralph Oppermann: I have noticed material costs quietly creeping up and it feels like there are fewer vendor promotions also. The biggest cost increase has been labor costs. Staff like hygienists are in very short supply and they are demanding more compensation. Wages [have increased by] 20-40 percent in the last couple of years. Sadly, the insurance write-offs are increasing and also reducing the bottom line.