Augusta University
Stacey Hudson
The DCG Dentist Entrepreneur Alliance recently welcomed guest speaker David Harris, founder and CEO of Prosperident, a firm specializing in dental embezzlement investigations. A full classroom of students, faculty and staff gathered to hear his insights on safeguarding dental practices from financial theft.
Prosperident’s team investigates hundreds of cases annually, with specialists dedicated to areas like orthodontics and litigation support. Harris shared that nearly half of all dentists have already experienced embezzlement, and around 70% will likely become victims during their careers. In most cases, losses exceed $100,000 before discovery.
He explained that employees typically steal due to financial desperation or a sense of entitlement. Hiring missteps often open the door. Harris emphasized the importance of preemployment screenings, including criminal background checks, reference verification, and drug testing.
Other red flags include deposit discrepancies, staff avoiding time off, and working after hours. Weak internal controls and poor oversight make practices vulnerable. Harris urged owners to divide financial responsibilities, monitor daily reports, and personally print and review key records to prevent selective reporting.
Harris is the author of Dental Embezzlement: The Art of Theft and the Science of Control.
Harris’ advice:
1. Run thorough preemployment checks
• Criminal background screenings
• Reference verification
• Drug testing
2. Watch for red flags
• Deposit discrepancies
• Employees avoiding time off
• Staff working after hours
3. Avoid weak internal controls
• Don’t assign all financial duties to one or two employees
• Divide responsibilities to create accountability
4. Practice effective delegation
• Stay involved in oversight
• Learn enough to verify tasks are done correctly
5. Review practice data daily
• Print reports yourself—don’t rely on staff
• Analyze reports before leaving the office each day
6. Address issues promptly; delays reduce effectiveness
