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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about dental office construction, timelines, costs, and our process.
How long does a dental office buildout take?
A typical dental office buildout takes 8-16 weeks depending on the scope. Factors that affect timeline include:
- Permit approval: NYC DOB permits can take 4-8 weeks
- Size: A 3-operatory office is faster than a 10-operatory facility
- Complexity: Specialty rooms like CBCT or sedation suites add time
- Equipment coordination: Aligning construction with equipment delivery
What permits are required for dental construction in NYC?
Dental office construction in NYC typically requires:
- NYC DOB Alteration Permit: For any structural, plumbing, or electrical work
- FDNY: Fire alarm and sprinkler modifications
- DOH: Department of Health review for healthcare facilities
- Plumbing permit: For dental-specific plumbing (vacuum, air, nitrous)
- Electrical permit: For panel upgrades and medical-grade circuits
Do you handle equipment installation?
We handle all the construction preparation for your equipment — the rough-in work that most contractors get wrong:
- Precise utility placement (water, drain, vacuum, air, electrical)
- Blocking and support for wall-mounted equipment
- Proper floor level for chair installation
- Coordination with equipment dealers on specifications
What makes you different from other contractors?
Three things set us apart:
- Manufacturer training: I worked at Benco Dental and received hands-on training from A-dec, Midmark, Planmeca, Air Techniques, Vatech, DCI, and Dexis. I know exactly how dental equipment needs to be installed.
- Equipment handling: We can disconnect, relocate, and reconnect dental equipment during renovations — including X-ray calibration coordination. No other contractor can do this.
- Single point of contact: I manage the entire project. No finger-pointing between trades, no miscommunication.
How much does dental office construction cost?
Costs vary significantly based on scope:
- Single operatory addition: $15,000 – $35,000
- Complete buildout (per sq ft): $150 – $400
- Equipment disconnect/reconnect: Depends on equipment type
What areas do you serve?
We serve the entire New York Tri-State area:
- New York City: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island
- Westchester County: White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Scarsdale, and surrounding areas
- Long Island: Nassau County, Suffolk County
- New Jersey: Northern NJ (Bergen, Hudson, Essex counties)
Can you work on my office while I stay open?
Yes. We understand that closing your practice means lost revenue. For renovations and additions, we offer:
- Night and weekend work: Construction happens after patients leave
- Phased construction: Complete one area while you operate in another
- Dust and noise control: Temporary barriers and scheduling around procedures
- Clean worksite: We clean up daily so your practice is presentable
Do you handle ADA compliance?
Yes. Every project we build meets Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements:
- Accessible entrance and pathways
- Compliant restroom design (grab bars, clearances, fixtures)
- Doorway widths for wheelchair access
- Accessible treatment rooms when required
- Proper signage
What about X-ray equipment that needs calibration?
Panoramic X-ray and CBCT equipment requires professional calibration after being moved. Here’s how we handle it:
- We disconnect and protect the equipment during construction
- We reinstall and reconnect it to specifications
- We coordinate with the manufacturer (Vatech, Planmeca, Dexis, etc.) to schedule calibration
- The manufacturer’s technician performs the calibration and certification
Do you provide design services?
We work with dental-specific designers and architects who understand practice workflow. Options include:
- Equipment dealer design: Benco, Patterson, Schein, and Henry Schein all offer design services
- Independent dental designers: We can recommend specialists
- Architect coordination: We work with your architect to ensure buildability
Still Have Questions?
Let’s talk. I’m happy to discuss your project and answer any questions you have.