Q&A Jill Allen

Jill Allen

The Strategist Behind Start-Up Success and Legacy-Ready Growth

As the founder and driving force behind Jill Allen & Associates, Jill Allen has become one of the most respected voices in orthodontic consulting. Known for her hands-on approach and strategic clarity, she has helped countless practices launch, grow, and transition successfully.

With decades of experience across every stage of the orthodontic journey, Jill leads one of the most sought-after consulting firms in the field. From guiding new doctors through their first startup to helping seasoned orthodontists craft a meaningful legacy, her work is shaping the future of practices across the country.

At OP Summit 2025, she’ll share how to build a business that grows with you—and lasts long after you.

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Q: Jill, you have an extensive career in the orthodontic industry—over 30 years! What’s your journey been like, and what does your firm focus on today?

A: I actually started as a clinical assistant, chairside right out of school. From there, I moved through nearly every role in a practice—treatment coordinator, office manager, and more. That hands-on experience is the foundation of everything I teach now. About 18 years ago, I founded my own consulting firm to help practices run more efficiently and intentionally.

Today, we specialize in start-up practices—helping doctors go from idea to opening day and beyond. But we also work with established practices during growth phases, transitions, and retirement planning. It’s a full-circle approach. We design floor plans, guide hiring, train teams, set up systems, and help doctors build a practice they’re proud of.

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Q: Your session is titled “From Start-Up to Legacy.” What will attendees learn about sustainability and long-term success?

A: We’ll look at the full life cycle of a practice. That means building strategic vision, setting systems that can scale, hiring and developing strong teams, and staying financially healthy throughout.

I’ll cover key growth phases—from the marketing-heavy start-up stage, to the delegation-focused growth stage, all the way through optimizing efficiency and planning for transition or exit. Whether you’re just opening or looking ahead to retirement, you’ll leave with a roadmap to build something that lasts.

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Q: You’ve helped launch so many practices. What’s your top advice for young orthodontists just getting started?

A: Don’t skip the planning phase. The best practices are built before the first patient walks through the door. That includes demographic research, smart branding, budgeting wisely, and knowing your differentiation from day one.

Also—get guidance. Don’t be afraid to work with a mentor or consultant. It’s far less expensive to do things right the first time than to fix mistakes later. And finally: build a financial cushion. Stress at launch will limit your growth. Set yourself up for confidence, not chaos.

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Q: Your lecture also covers established practices. What are the biggest challenges mid- and late-career orthodontists face—and how do you help them?

A: Mid-career doctors often get caught in the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset. Maybe growth has slowed, competition is rising, or marketing hasn’t evolved. At this stage, I help them refresh their brand, their leadership, and their systems.

For late-career doctors, it’s all about legacy. Too many leave transition planning until it’s too late. I’ll walk through how to prepare a practice for sale or partnership—financially, operationally, and culturally—so the doctor, team, and patients all land safely.

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Q: You’re known for balancing adventure and business—dirt bikes, mountains, and all. How do you keep that balance, and do you recommend others do the same?

A: Absolutely! I believe in building a practice that supports your life—not the other way around. I’ve built my consulting business to give me flexibility, and I encourage my clients to do the same. That means delegating, trusting your systems, and scheduling your life first.

Whether it’s a mountain ride, family time, or just a weekend off—you’ll be a better leader when you’re not burned out. And that joy spills over into your team, your patients, and your overall success.

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Q: Final words for doctors coming to your session?

A: No matter where you are in your career—just starting out or looking to step away—there are smart, strategic ways to build or evolve your practice. If you attend this session, you’ll walk away with practical tools, fresh inspiration, and most importantly, the confidence to take the next step. Success isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about building a practice that’s sustainable, profitable, and personally fulfilling.

Whether you're starting strong or preparing to finish well—this session is your blueprint.

Join Jill Allen at OP Summit 2025 in Las Vegas.

🎟 Use promo code JILL2025 to save $200 on registration.

Build a practice that lasts—and a life you love along the way.