Dentistry is a rewarding and dynamic profession, but for those aspiring to enter this field, it is essential to understand that the world beyond dental school is about much more than clinical procedures. Running a dental practice means balancing patient care with business operations, compliance, team leadership and personal well-being. These principles also apply to other healthcare professionals who run their own business. Here, I offer a detailed look at what life as a practicing dentist and business owner truly entails.
A Day in the Life
My day typically begins at 7:30 AM. Before patients arrive, I meet briefly with my team for a morning huddle. We review the day’s schedule, discuss any special needs for upcoming cases, and address any concerns or updates. It sets a collaborative tone.
From 9:00 AM onwards, it is a blend of consultations and procedures. A new patient might present with unexplained sensitivity, leading us into diagnostic work, including X-rays and a clinical exam. I walk them through possible causes and outline treatment options.
By mid-morning, I might be doing restorative work, fillings, crowns or perhaps a root canal for a patient in acute pain. In the afternoon, there might be a wisdom tooth extraction under nitrous sedation or cosmetic procedures such as veneers or teeth whitening.
Between patients, I check in with staff, approve supply orders or review insurance claims. The day usually wraps up around 6 PM, but it doesn’t end there. I often spend time after hours reviewing complex cases, continuing education or handling business decisions.
Dentist Profiles
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Patient Management
Understanding patients is as critical as treating them. Every individual brings different concerns, expectations and levels of dental anxiety. Patient management involves active listening, clear communication and building trust. It is important to present treatment plans in an understandable way, including the pros/cons, costs/timelines and to respect the patient’s decision-making process.
Human Resource Management
A dental practice thrives on a cohesive team. From hygienists to front desk staff, each person plays a role in delivering care. Hiring is just the start; ongoing training, conflict resolution and creating a positive work culture are vital. I make it a point to conduct regular team meetings, offer feedback, and recognize achievements.
Ordering Supplies and Office Logistics
Running out of materials in the middle of a procedure is every dentist’s nightmare. Supply management requires diligence, tracking inventory, ordering in a timely fashion and maintaining relationships with vendors. Additionally, I handle lease negotiations with the landlord, ensure equipment maintenance and manage utility services.
Compliance
In Ontario, compliance spans Public Health regulations, City of Kitchener bylaws, Workers Compensation, and OSHA-like standards under provincial laws. Regular inspections, documentation, sterilization protocols and staff certifications are mandatory. Staying compliant means staying proactive. We run monthly audits and attend regulatory updates.
Financial Management and Business Metrics
A practice is also a business. Managing cash flow, budgeting, monitoring accounts receivable and understanding profitability are crucial. Key metrics include production per hour, patient retention rates and case acceptance rates. For financial literacy, I recommend resources such as the “Dentaltown” forums and the book The E-Myth Dentist by Michael Gerber. External consultants can also provide insight into optimizing practice performance.
Technology Integration and Staying Current
Dentistry evolves rapidly. We have integrated digital radiography, intraoral scanners and soft tissue lasers into our workflow. Staying current means regularly attending CE courses, webinars and dental expos. AI tools are also emerging, assisting with diagnostics and treatment planning. Investing in technology enhances patient experience and clinical outcomes.
Work-Life Balance Strategies
Balancing a demanding practice with personal life is challenging. I set boundaries, limiting after-hours work and dedicating weekends to family and hobbies, i.e. motorcycle riding. Delegation is key: trusting your team allows you to step back when needed. Scheduling time off and pursuing non-dental interests helps prevent burnout.
Patient Communication
Effective communication builds loyalty. We use follow-up calls, newsletters and social media to stay engaged. Educating patients on procedures, setting realistic expectations and being available for questions are essential. Transparency fosters trust and leads to better compliance and satisfaction.
Community Involvement and Practice Growth
We actively engage with our community—supporting local schools, offering externships, and participating in health fairs. Community involvement not only builds goodwill but also organically grows the practice. Referrals often come from these connections, and it establishes the practice as a trusted local presence.
Key Dos and Don’ts
Do:
- Invest in your team’s growth.
- Stay compliant and document thoroughly.
- Continue learning and adapting.
- Listen to your patients.
- Track business metrics regularly.
Don’t:
- Neglect the administrative side.
- Micromanage—trust your team.
- Ignore your own well-being.
- Underestimate the power of communication.
- Avoid difficult conversations with patients or staff.
Personal Anecdotes
I remember a patient who had not smiled in years due to missing teeth. After completing her bridgework, she cried tears of joy seeing her reflection. Moments like these remind me why I chose this profession, or the nervous child who left my office excited about brushing after a simple educational chat. These small victories are the real rewards.
Recommended Resources
- The E-Myth Dentist by Michael Gerber
- Dental Practice Hero by Dr. Paul Etchison
- Dentaltown Forums (www.dentaltown.com)
- Spear Education (www.speareducation.com)
- Ontario Dental Association (www.oda.ca)
- American Dental Association (www.ada.org)
Running a dental practice is a multifaceted endeavor. Yes, there are challenges, financial, regulatory and managerial, however at the heart of it, dentistry is a deeply fulfilling career. Helping patients, leading a skilled team and continuously growing both clinically and personally makes all the effort worthwhile. Every smile you restore adds meaning to your journey and that is something unique and special.
