Use Blank Database

See Installation.

Getting to know the ins and outs of Open Dental will take some time. Because Open Dental is flexible, you have many choices in how you use the software and which features you implement. Below are recommendations on how to begin using Open Dental when starting with a blank database (e.g., transitioning from paper charts or a new practice starting from scratch).

Setup

Before entering patient data, it is important to set time aside to address HIPAA issues and set up Open Dental for your practice.

Resources

Patient Information and Appointments

We recommend starting with patients who have an upcoming appointment.

Before the scheduled appointment: Create records for patients and enter as much information as you have available.

During the appointment

Front Desk

Daily tasks

End of Day Reports: Most offices run the reports below at the end of the day. These reports can be run by provider, by clinic, and other optional criteria.

Other Useful Features

Manage Appointments

Open Dental has several tools you can use to manage appointments and keep your schedule full, thus keeping your production high.