Budgeting for Your Dental Practice Renovation in Salt Lake City: What to Expect
If you’re planning a dental practice renovation in Salt Lake City, you’re probably asking the same question most dentists ask:
“What will this actually cost—and how do I avoid going over budget?”
A dental office remodel is more complex than a standard commercial remodel. Dental clinic construction involves specialized
plumbing, electrical coordination, code compliance, and careful scheduling—so budgeting upfront (the right way) can save you a lot of stress later.
1) What Drives the Cost of a Dental Office Remodel?
Many dentists assume a renovation budget is mostly finishes—paint, flooring, and lighting. But a
dental practice renovation typically includes technical requirements that don’t exist in a typical office build-out.
Common dental clinic construction scope items
- Operatory plumbing (water, drains, tie-ins, possible reroutes)
- Electrical upgrades (dedicated circuits, panel capacity, equipment rough-ins)
- X-ray room requirements (shielding, inspections, and documentation)
- Structural backing for wall-mounted equipment and cabinetry
- Custom cabinetry / millwork designed for dental workflows
- HVAC changes for comfort, airflow, and equipment heat loads
Because of these needs, dental clinic construction often costs more per square foot than a standard commercial remodel.
The total cost depends on the size of the space, the scope of demolition, the condition of the existing building, and local permitting requirements.
2) The Biggest Budget Risk: Change Orders
One of the biggest fears dentists have is starting with a budget that “looks fine,” only to watch it climb once demolition begins.
Change orders are often caused by unknown conditions in the existing space or incomplete scope definition.
Common “surprises” during a dental office renovation
- Outdated electrical systems that require upgrades for modern equipment
- Plumbing conflicts discovered after demolition
- Non-compliant work from previous tenants or older remodels
- Structural conflicts (walls that can’t move, unexpected framing needs, etc.)
A good contractor reduces these surprises with a detailed preconstruction process—carefully reviewing plans,
asking the right questions, and coordinating trades early. That’s how a renovation budget becomes predictable
instead of stressful.
3) Schedule Impacts Your Budget More Than You Think
Your renovation budget isn’t only about construction costs—it’s also about timing.
Delays can affect your revenue, your staffing, and (if you’re leasing) your rent-free build-out period.
Practical tip: If you’re leasing a space, ask your contractor to build the schedule around your rent-free build-out period.
If construction goes long, you may end up paying rent before you’re open.
What a well-run dental practice renovation schedule includes
- A realistic timeline with clear milestone dates
- Early planning for long-lead items (cabinetry, doors, specialty lighting, equipment rough-ins)
- Proactive coordination with inspectors and permitting timelines
- Consistent trade flow so time isn’t lost between phases
Dentists often want a remodel that moves efficiently and doesn’t disrupt business more than necessary.
A realistic schedule is one of the best tools for protecting both your budget and your peace of mind.
4) Don’t Forget Soft Costs
Many dentists budget for construction, but forget several “soft costs” that can materially affect the total project cost.
A complete dental office remodel budget accounts for the full picture.
Common soft costs for dental office remodeling
- Architectural and engineering fees
- Permits, plan check fees, and inspections
- Dental equipment purchase and installation
- IT, security, access control, and data cabling
- Furniture, décor, signage, and branding updates
- Temporary relocation costs (if you’re remodeling an active office)
- Marketing for reopening (so patients know what’s changing and when)
Budget clarity reduces frustration. When you know what to expect, you can make better decisions and avoid last-minute stress.
5) The Real Goal: A Renovation That Supports Your Growth
A successful dental practice renovation should do more than update finishes.
It should improve workflow, elevate patient comfort, and position your practice as modern and professional.
- Improved workflow for your team (less wasted movement, better room layout)
- Better patient experience (comfort, cleanliness, and a more welcoming feel)
- Future-ready layout that can support growth without another major remodel too soon
- Brand alignment that matches the quality of care you deliver
Most dentists aspire to create a practice that feels calm, professional, and efficient—for patients and staff.
A well-planned remodel helps you get there.
Planning a Dental Office Remodel in Salt Lake City?
At Sun Gate Construction, we specialize in dental clinic construction and tenant improvements in existing commercial buildings.
We understand the technical requirements, tight timelines, and financial pressure that come with renovating a dental practice.
Our process begins with a detailed preconstruction review so you receive a realistic budget—not a number that changes halfway through the project.
If you’re evaluating a dental office remodel in Salt Lake City, we’d be happy to review your plans, walk your space, and help you understand what to expect before you commit.
Let’s make your renovation predictable, efficient, and successful.