The Success of Orthodontic Satellite Practices

Objective: To evaluate the financial success and personal satisfaction of orthodontists operating satellite practices. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was e-mailed to 4426 members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and 817 completed surveys were returned, yielding an 18% response rate. Only replies from solo practitioner orthodontists were analyzed to limit variability among respondents. Results: Solo practitioner orthodontists with satellite practices reported an increase in net profit and started significantly more cases than orthodontists with one office. Yet, only 27% of respondents with one satellite and 48% of practitioners operating multiple satellites recommend opening a satellite practice. Ninety-two percent of orthodontists stated they were satisfied with the clinical aspects of their practice, and 99% of orthodontists described themselves as happy and satisfied individuals. Conclusion: Despite the ability of a satellite office to expand a patient base and increase net income, most practitioners would not encourage young orthodontists to establish a satellite office.