The Power of Doing Something Nice

Darrell reflects on how little gestures transformed his lab

"Do Something Nice Day" is in October. It’s a day dedicated to spreading kindness through small gestures that make a big difference. This got me reflecting on how acts of kindness have shaped not just my personal life, but also the way I’ve approached running Berkeley Dental Laboratory.

My parents instilled in me the importance of always doing the right thing and going above and beyond for others. They believed that no act of kindness was too small and that taking care of people is the foundation for building trust and lasting relationships. That philosophy has stayed with me throughout my career, and it’s played a big role in the success of my business today.

Going the Extra Mile for Our Customers

At Berkeley Dental Laboratory, we’ve built a reputation on being more than just a lab — we’re partners in your success. And that means going above and beyond, no matter the situation. Over the years, there have been countless moments where I’ve had the opportunity to do something nice for my customers. 

There was a time when one of my doctors was in a particular bind. He had an elderly patient who needed to get to his dental office to drop off his partial. We needed it because we were making him a new crown to fit under his existing partial. However, the elderly patient couldn't get any family members to drive him or help him drop off his partial to his dental office.

As I talk to the front desk of my doctors every day, I know and understand it takes a lot of work to schedule the patient's appointments while coordinating between the doctor and my lab. The dental practice was very stressed out about this, but I said, "Hey, I can drive to his house and save him a trip." I didn't think much of it, but I could tell they weren't expecting me to go out of my way. It's always a great feeling when you can help someone out when they least expect it, especially for an elderly patient.

More recently, one of my doctors purchased a new intraoral scanner to take digital impressions. From what I've seen with my other doctors who had already purchased a scanner — there is a learning period, before they are totally comfortable taking digital impression scans. While he was transitioning from traditional physical PVS impressions to digital scans; if there were any remakes needed that were due to the scans, I offered to remake the crowns at no charge. This gave him peace of mind and helped to relieve him of any extra stress while he gained confidence using it. He is now scanning like a pro and we are both getting great outcomes for our patients!

These moments remind me that sometimes, doing something nice isn’t just about a grand gesture. It’s about listening to what people really need and being willing to step up, even when it’s unexpected.

The Heart of Our Business: People First

My parents’ lessons about kindness extend beyond just how we do business. It’s about creating a workplace culture where we do the right thing for our customers, no matter the challenge. Whether we’re helping with the difficulties of coordinating our doctors' daily schedule by driving out to their elderly patient's home because they do not have transportation or helping our doctors transition from physical to digital impressions, we are committed to making sure that you and your patients are taken care of.

These values have been central to the way I operate my lab. Over the years, I’ve learned that going above and beyond for our doctors, their team and our patients isn’t just good business — it’s the right thing to do. And it’s why so many of you have continued to trust us with your cases, year after year.

Kindness Breeds Success

As we celebrate "Do Something Nice Day" this month, I encourage you to take a moment and think about the small acts of kindness you can offer to those around you. Whether it’s in your practice, your community, or even within your family, these moments of kindness create a ripple effect that can lead to deeper relationships, stronger bonds, and, ultimately, success.

Thank you for your continued trust in Berkeley Dental Laboratory. We’re here for you, and we’re always ready to go the extra mile to ensure you and your patients get the best care possible.