Owning a Dental Practice: Key Considerations
One of the first major decisions you'll face as a dentist is whether to start your own practice from scratch or buy an existing one. Each option comes with its own unique set of benefits and challenges, and it’s important to choose the path that aligns with your goals, resources, and personality.
In a recent episode of The Startup Dentist, I sat down with Brian Hanks, founder of The Dental Buyer Advocates and author of How to Buy a Dental Practice. Together, we explored the pros and cons of both routes to help dentists make informed decisions about ownership.
Benefits of Acquiring an Existing Practice
You’ll inherit an established patient base
The startup process is generally faster
Requires a lower financial investment up front
Reduced risk compared to building from the ground up
Advantages of Starting a Practice from Scratch
You have full creative and clinical control
You can build your ideal team, systems, and brand
Greater long-term potential for growth and personalization
Financial Management and Systems: Key Factors for Success
Whether you’re buying or building, financial planning is everything. Brian and I discussed the importance of understanding your cash flow, building a strong financial cushion, and designing systems that allow your practice to run smoothly from day one.
Key areas to prepare for include:
Patient retention and acquisition
Construction and equipment costs
Timeline planning and financial forecasting
Success is far more likely when you approach practice ownership with structure and strategy.
Insights for Practice Growth and Transition
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to ownership. Your goals, appetite for risk, and leadership style all influence what’s best for you.
Some dentists prioritize rapid growth, while others want slow and steady progress with long-term independence. Whether you're focused on aggressive expansion or lifestyle balance, knowing what success looks like for you will help guide your path.
Expert Tips and Resources
Still deciding? Listen to the full episode of The Startup Dentist on Spotify to hear Brian’s expert take on both options. For deeper guidance, check out his book How to Buy a Dental Practice or visit dentalbuyeradvocates.com for helpful tools and articles.
Legal and Management Considerations for Dental Practice Ownership
Dental practice ownership isn’t just about clinical care—it’s also about business leadership. From understanding legal responsibilities to managing a team, you'll need to wear multiple hats as an owner.
Legal Considerations for Dental Practice Ownership
Choosing the right business structure (e.g., LLC, S Corp)
Securing the right insurance policies
Understanding employment laws and HR regulations
Practice Management Tips for Success
Build and follow a detailed budget
Create and refine your marketing strategy
Communicate clearly and regularly with your team
Invest in efficient systems for scheduling, billing, and patient communication
Corporate Dentistry vs. Private Practice Ownership
While corporate dentistry offers some benefits—like shared resources and operational support—private practice ownership allows you full control over clinical decisions, culture, and growth strategy.
Dental Practice Ownership Models
Corporate dentistry employment
Partnerships or group practices
Solo private practice ownership
Each model comes with different expectations and outcomes. The key is to understand what aligns best with your personal and professional vision.
Expert Insights for Dentist Entrepreneurship
Owning a dental practice means stepping into an entrepreneurial role. You’re not just a clinician—you’re a business leader, brand builder, and strategist.
Practice Ownership Tips for Dentist Entrepreneurs
Stay informed on industry trends and evolving technologies
Surround yourself with a network of mentors and like-minded professionals
Be willing to experiment, iterate, and innovate
Prioritize both business strategy and patient care
Start Your Dental Practice Ownership Journey Today
Owning a dental practice can be incredibly fulfilling—both professionally and personally. But success starts with smart decisions and the right support.
Whether you’re in the research phase or ready to sign the dotted line, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Take Action Now
Ready to take the next step? Listen to The Startup Dentist episode featuring Brian Hanks on Spotify, check out his book How to Buy a Dental Practice, and visit dentalbuyeradvocates.com for more tools and tips.
Don't wait to build the career and life you've been dreaming of—start your dental practice ownership journey today.