Inventory Control

Over-ordering can result in pushing the practice over budget and risk expiration of products prior to use. Not having enough supplies leads to frustration, especially when you reach for a product only to find an empty shelf. Inventory control is an important part of functioning of a dental office.

Implementing Good Inventory Control

How do we implement good inventory control? Start by assessing your capacity to store items. If you have a small office, space may not allow ordering a larger supply of products, even if they are on sale.

Assess Product Usage

Determine how frequently you go through products. You can gather this data by implementing an ordering system. Many years ago, when I worked in a dental office, I created an index card for each item. I listed the product name, manufacturer, quantity ordered, price paid, and where I purchased it.

Although the index card method is outdated, you can use an Excel spreadsheet, a bar code system from your vendor, or specialized software to achieve the same goal.

Stock Rotation

A key consideration is to rotate the stock, always placing older items in the front and newer items in the back to avoid expiration. Keep items in their original boxes in case of a recall and to reference expiration dates.

Testing New Products

Before purchasing a new product, test it out. Sometimes, products ordered at conventions end up forgotten in the supply closet. Test samples first and involve the team in the decision to ensure the product fits into your workflow.

Organization is Key

Keep your stock organized, neat, and easy to find.

Conclusion

Hopefully, these tips will help you effectively manage your inventory and maintain good control.

Have any questions?