They Don’t Train Dentists to Run a Business. We Had to Figure That Out.
After 21 years, La Costa Dental Excellence reflects on the real lessons that transformed their practice.
At La Costa Dental Excellence, the dentistry was never in question. Drs. Steve, Kim, and Piper Dankworth had clinical excellence down to a science. What they didn’t have, at least not initially, was a roadmap for how to effectively run the business of a practice.
“We weren’t great at numbers,” Piper admitted. “We weren’t tracking metrics month to month or year to year. Sunrise made us do that, and it changed everything.”
For years, like many successful dentists, the Dankworths were busy. The schedule was full. The work was good. But there was an underlying sense that something more was possible if only they had the tools to unlock it. It wasn’t sparked by a single moment or crisis, just a growing realization that they had reached a ceiling. The dentistry was solid, but everything around it—leadership, systems, team dynamics needed structure, clarity, and strategy. They didn’t just want to work harder. They wanted to work smarter. And for that, they knew they needed help.
When Great Clinical Skills Aren’t Enough
In the early days, these challenges became clear through missed opportunities and inefficiencies. There were no clear training systems, the office culture shifted with every new hire, marketing lacked focus, and burnout quietly crept in. All of that changed once they partnered with Sunrise Dental Solutions.
21 Years In, We Still Needed Help
After more than two decades with Sunrise, the Dankworths openly acknowledge that the learning never stops. Piper, who joined the family practice after growing up in a Sunrise-supported environment, brings a fresh perspective shaped by that experience. Even major milestones—like Piper buying into the practice—were navigated with the guidance and support of Sunrise advisors.
The Power of Having Someone in Your Corner
Each month, the Dankworths meet with their Sunrise advisor to discuss whatever they faced—from growth strategies to navigating difficult team dynamics. This ongoing support goes far beyond business tactics; it’s about building a lasting legacy.
Lessons Worth Sharing
Reflecting on their journey, the Dankworths emphasize the importance of seeking help early rather than waiting until burnout or overwhelm sets in. Even after 21 years, they recognize the value of investing in the right guidance and support to continue growing. Most importantly, they understand that clinical skill alone doesn’t guarantee practice success—strong leadership and management are equally essential.
Explore their practice and philosophy at: La Costa Dental Excellence