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The Future of Dentistry—and How to Crush It as a Practice Owner

 

The Future of Dentistry—and How to Crush It as a Practice Owner

If you’re preparing to open your own dental practice, you probably feel that mix of excitement and “holy crap, what am I stepping into?” That’s completely normal.

Now imagine if you could sit down with someone who’s built a thriving private practice from scratch, taught at dental schools around the country, and mentors doctors just like you every single day.

That’s what this episode of the Ideal Practices Podcast delivers.

A Front-Row Seat to What’s Next in Dentistry

Dr. David Rice—founder of IgniteDDS and a 20-year private practice veteran—joins us to unpack what’s really happening in the future of dentistry.

This isn’t armchair theorizing. Dr. Rice has been in the trenches of both clinical practice and dental education. He’s had a front-row seat at academic roundtables and private practice consulting circles—and he’s here to tell you what’s coming and how to be ready for it.

Inside the Episode: What You’ll Learn

  • Why technology is non-negotiable—and how to invest without getting outdated fast

  • What dental schools are teaching (and what’s missing that you’ll have to learn elsewhere)

  • The private practice vs. corporate dentistry reality—and what the 35% vs. 65% split means for your future

  • How to claim a free copy of Dr. Rice’s book, CRUSH

  • The collaboration-over-competition trend and how it benefits startup doctors

  • What he really thinks about the future of dental specialists (spoiler: it’s nuanced)

This Is Bigger Than Just Clinical Excellence

You already know the clinical side. But opening a dental practice today means taking on leadership in every area—operations, finances, team culture, and strategy.

So here’s the big question: Are you building your practice for the world as it is… or the world as it’s going to be?

Because the playbook from 10 years ago won’t cut it anymore.

The Good News? You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

At Ideal Practices, we’ve helped over 900 dentists launch private practices that reflect their values, serve their communities, and generate real profitability.

And we’ll be honest—every one of those successful doctors asked tough questions, just like you’re asking now.

When you’re ready to go deeper, here’s where to start:

Final Thought: This Is Your Time

Dr. Rice’s journey shows what’s possible when you blend smart strategy with clear purpose.

Whether you’re still in planning mode or getting ready to sign your lease, let this episode be your reminder that the future of dentistry can belong to independent owners—if you build with clarity and intention.

Let’s crush it—together.

—Stephen Trutter