How to Reduce Dental School Debt by $35,000 (or More): Smart Strategies for Startup Dentists
If you’re preparing to open your own dental practice, you’re likely staring down one unavoidable reality: dental school debt.
With average loan balances hovering around $240,000—and some topping $400,000—it’s no wonder new dentists feel the financial pressure before their first patient ever walks through the door.
But here’s the good news: reducing dental school debt is possible, and it’s happening right now for hundreds of dentists across the country.
In this episode of the Ideal Practices Podcast, I sit down with Dan Macklin, co-founder of SoFi—one of the most trusted names in education loan refinancing. And we break down exactly how startup-minded doctors can eliminate tens of thousands in loan burden with just a few smart moves.
Dental School Debt Is a Heavy Burden—But It Doesn’t Have to Hold You Back
Launching a dental startup is already a big lift. Add a six-figure loan balance, and it can feel almost impossible.
But many doctors don’t realize just how much they could save. We’re talking $35,000 or more in total repayment reduction—simply by refinancing at the right time, with the right lender.
We walk through how it works, what to look for, and why timing is critical (because yes—refinancing too early or too late can cost you).
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
What the average debt load looks like for today’s new dentists
How refinancing has helped over 1,000 dentists lower their monthly payments
When refinancing makes sense—and when to hold off
Which refinancing strategies apply to general dentists vs. specialists
A simple 10-minute process that could save you five or six figures over the life of your loan
Why Reducing Debt Matters for Startup Success
Lower monthly payments aren’t just about feeling better—they create real operational flexibility.
That extra cash flow could help you:
Hire earlier
Invest in better equipment
Launch a stronger marketing plan
Or just breathe easier during those first crucial months of ownership
And while we love seeing doctors chase big goals, there’s no glory in overpaying on student loans if there’s a smarter path.
Top Takeaways for Startup Dentists
The average dental school debt is now over $240,000—but that doesn’t have to be your long-term reality
Refinancing through platforms like SoFi is saving many doctors $35,000+
Even a slight drop in your interest rate can lead to huge lifetime savings
Don’t refinance too early—or too late. Your timing matters.
Your debt strategy should support your ownership goals, not stall them
Don’t Miss the Full Interview
Dan Macklin shares behind-the-scenes insights from SoFi’s $2.5B lending portfolio and what they’ve learned from helping thousands of healthcare professionals navigate repayment.
If you're even thinking about launching a practice, this episode is worth a listen.
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Want to plan the rest of your startup the smart way?
Download the Startup Dentist Book for real-world insights
Attend the Startup Practice Blueprint to map out your full practice plan
Schedule a consultation call with our team for one-on-one guidance
Or explore how other doctors have launched confidently—debt and all—on our testimonials page
Because when you manage your debt wisely, you create the space to lead, grow, and live the life your practice was meant to support.
—Stephen Trutter