Dr. Xhoana Gjelaj is a graduate of Nova Southeastern University. She has established her first practice in Tarpon Springs, FL, before moving and expanding to nearby Trinity, FL, in a brand-new state-of-the-art dental facility she designed and built herself, Trinity Dental Arts.
Dr. Gjelaj is one of the few dentists in North America to be awarded the Mastership of Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and Diplomateship of International Congress of Oral Implantology (ICOI). Her robust, post-graduate training enables her to offer a comprehensive approach to patient wellness and dental health. This is evidenced by over 2,000 hours of continued education training in implant and restorative dentistry Dr. Gjelaj has attended since graduating dental school, keeping up with the latest scientific, technological, and clinical developments in patient care.
Her passion is improving patients’ lives by providing the best dental care possible. Her patients can benefit from the vast arsenal of “tools” Dr. Gjelaj uses to treat simple and complex conditions that require multidisciplinary mastery of the art and science of dentistry. Her proactive approach to patient care focuses on preventative and comprehensive dentistry with lasting results.
Dr. Gjelaj mentors other dentists throughout the year at the Scottsdale Center for Dentistry through the CEREC Doctors Mentor Club. In addition to the Mastership of Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and Diplomateship of International Congress of Oral Implantology (ICOI), Dr. Gjelaj is a Fellow of the prestigious Misch International Implant Institute, Alumni of The Dawson Academy and The Pankey Institute; member of American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM), and American Academy of Cosmetic Orthodontics (AACO).
Her commitment to the art and science of dentistry has earned her recognition among peers and mentors alike.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start Trinity Dental Arts?
Both of my parents were dental technicians and they instilled in me from early childhood a love and respect for the profession of dentistry. I knew since I was little that one day, I would become a dentist. After graduation from dental school, I realized that if I were to achieve my professional goals, I would have to start my own dental practice.
How do you make money?
I have focused my efforts in understanding and helping my patients. My goal is to treat the underlying causes of their dental problems and that is how I approach treatment and diagnosis in my office. Patients benefit tremendously from this approach as it provides definitive solutions for their dental health and eliminates complications and overly invasive procedures. I like to think that I help my patients achieve optimal dental health and they in return reward me generously for my work.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
Owning my dental office is not just a venture into healthcare, but also a business venture. The first two years were difficult because I had to navigate the new world of business. I think we have shown tremendous diligence and responsibility in using our assets and focusing on our core mission at Trinity Dental Arts – helping patients. The rest has just fallen into place and I am very proud to say that we run a profitable business by all measures.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
There are always moments of difficulty or insecurity, especially in any new venture. Two things have never changed: My commitment to the excellency of the dental profession, and my commitment to my patients’ dental health.
How did you get your first customer?
They were a walk-in. They were looking for a different dentist, but after talking to them for a little bit, they felt very comfortable in our office and decided to stay!
What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?
Many patients find me through world-of-mouth, but I am happy to say we have a good presence in social media and a lot of people reach out to us through that medium.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
I think the hardest decision I have made recently is to limit my practice to full-mouth restoration only. There is so much need out there, and I find that most people would rather benefit from a full-mouth approach instead of patchwork and temporary solutions. We have retooled our process to focus on this only and that has required a hard look at everything we do.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I think the core quality is commitment. Patients truly feel that we care for their health and they see the difference in how they are treated in our office. Success is a product of serving others, and I think we focus on that!
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Building Trinity Dental Arts has certainly been a very satisfying experience. Knowing that the space I work in every day is exactly how I want it, gives me great joy and the freedom to focus on my patients.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
I continue to invest in courses and advanced learning. I really enjoy bringing the latest clinical advancements to my patients and make a difference for them. I continue to grow and am very excited for new dental technologies coming into the horizon.
What business books have inspired you?
I am currently reading “Abundance” by Peter Diamantis. I like books that are not just about the balance sheet, but have principles I can use in every day life.
What is a recent purchase you have made that’s helped with your business?
The most recent big purchase we made was a whole digital laboratory equipment set. This enables me to exercise complete quality control of the complex and personalized restorations I prescribe for patients. Knowing the source and quality of materials and manufacturing gives our patients an added amount of confidence they are getting the very best.